USCG Exam PracticeDrug testing — pre-employment, random, post-incident
Under 46 CFR §16.250, a supervisor observes a crewmember displaying erratic behavior and suspects dangerous drug use. What is the regulatory standard that must be met before the marine employer can require the crewmember to submit to a reasonable cause drug test?
- A. A positive result on a field sobriety test administered by the master.
- ✓ A reasonable and articulable belief based on direct observation of specific, contemporaneous physical, behavioral, or performance indicators of probable use.Correct
- C. Written statements from at least three crewmembers corroborating the suspected drug use.
- D. Confirmation by the vessel's medical officer that the crewmember's symptoms are consistent with drug intoxication.
Why B is correct
46 CFR §16.250(b) requires that the decision to test be based on a reasonable and articulable belief derived from direct observation of specific, contemporaneous physical, behavioral, or performance indicators of probable use. Where practicable, this observation should be made by two persons in supervisory positions; written crew statements or medical officer confirmation are not the regulatory standard.
Cited:46 CFR §16.250