Achieving Objectives

A major DOT client with approximately 10,000 drivers selected NDI to create a program that would deliver a 24-hour turn around time on all test results-both positive and negative, peformed at any of its locations nationwide.

The program objectives was to:

1. reduce the costs of removing drivers from their duties pending results from post-accident tests
2. protect the company from the financial risk of drivers continuing on the job after testing pending results which may have been positive

NDI immediately began working closely with its laboratory to analyze each time consuming aspect of the testing process from collection, to processing to MRO review and reporting of final test results.

The objectives were met through strict adherence to NDI developed protocols as well as recommended modifications of the laboratory testing processes, within SAMHSA requirements including dual extractions for presumed positive specimens to eliminate substantial delays associated with re-testing failed test batches during additional testing of positive specimens. NDI also incorporated innovative shipping and identification methods and intense management of the process, supported by specially developed process management system reports and monitoring tools.

To NDI's knowledge, no other service provider has implemented a program of such magnitude on a national level. NDI maintained the program for two years before the client relaxed its demanding program standards. However, the protocols and procedures NDI created for this program to meet the extreme standards for this program continue to benefit all NDI clients.