PHMSA Drug and Alcohol Testing Services

NMS Screening & Compliance provides structured, PHMSA-compliant drug and alcohol testing support designed to help pipeline operators and regulated employers meet federal requirements, reduce compliance risk, and support safe, reliable operations.

PHMSA Drug & Alcohol Testing Compliance Requirements

PHMSA regulations require drug and alcohol testing for employees who perform covered functions related to pipeline and liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities. These requirements apply to both operators and contractors performing regulated work.

Covered functions include employees who perform:

• Operation of pipeline or LNG facilities.
• Maintenance of pipeline or LNG facilities.
• Emergency response functions.
• Other safety-sensitive activities defined under DOT pipeline safety regulations.

PHMSA Random Testing Rates

PHMSA-regulated employers must conduct random testing throughout the calendar year at the following minimum annual rates, unless formally adjusted by PHMSA:

• 50% for controlled substances.
• 10% for alcohol.

PHMSA Drug & Alcohol Testing Program Elements

NMS Screening & Compliance supports PHMSA-compliant testing programs that include the following required test types:

• Pre-Employment Testing: Drug testing conducted before an employee performs covered functions.
• Random Testing: Scientifically valid, unannounced random testing conducted throughout the year.
• Post-Accident Testing: Testing conducted following qualifying pipeline accidents or incidents, as defined by PHMSA regulations.
• Reasonable Cause / Reasonable Suspicion Testing: Testing based on specific, contemporaneous observations of possible drug or alcohol use.
• Return-to-Duty and Follow-Up Testing: Required testing for employees returning to covered functions after a violation, as directed by a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP).

PHMSA Compliance Oversight and Enforcement

PHMSA maintains enforcement authority to ensure operators comply with applicable drug and alcohol testing regulations. Employers subject to PHMSA oversight must maintain compliant testing programs and supporting documentation as part of their overall pipeline safety and compliance responsibilities.

Drug and alcohol testing compliance is a key component reviewed during PHMSA inspections and enforcement activities related to safety management and regulatory adherence.

Consequences of Noncompliance with PHMSA Drug Testing Regulations

Employers regulated by PHMSA are required to establish and maintain compliant drug and alcohol testing programs in accordance with 49 CFR Part 199 and 49 CFR Part 40. Failure to implement or properly administer a compliant program may result in PHMSA enforcement actions, including notices of violation and civil penalties assessed on a per-day, per-violation basis, depending on the nature and duration of the noncompliance. In addition, employees who violate PHMSA drug and alcohol testing requirements may be removed from covered functions until all applicable return-to-duty and follow-up requirements are completed.

NMS OnBoard™: Centralized PHMSA Drug Testing Management

NMS Screening & Compliance supports PHMSA-regulated drug testing programs through NMS OnBoard™, a secure, cloud-based, mobile-enabled platform that centralizes testing coordination, status tracking, and documentation management. NMS OnBoard™ provides pipeline operators with visibility into drug testing activity for employees and contractors performing safety-sensitive functions, including operations, maintenance, and emergency response. The platform supports consistent workflows, secure record retention, and integration with Medical Review Officer (MRO) services and laboratory reporting, helping organizations maintain clear oversight and audit readiness across PHMSA-covered operations.

Why Choose NMS Screening & Compliance?

• Regulatory Expertise: Deep experience supporting PHMSA-regulated operators and contractors.
• Custom Solutions: Drug and alcohol testing programs tailored to pipeline operations, workforce structure, and regulatory exposure.
• Nationwide Coverage: Reliable, compliant testing services across multiple states and operating regions.
• Comprehensive Services: End-to-end drug and alcohol testing and compliance program support.
• Expert Guidance: Practical assistance with policy development, program administration, and audit readiness.
• Flexible Options: Program configurations designed to support operators, contractors, and multi-location environments.