Upcoming virtual sessions will address post-accident testing requirements and Management Information System reporting for transit drug and alcohol testing programs.

The South West Transit Association (SWTA) is sharing two important training opportunities from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) designed to help public transportation agencies strengthen their understanding of federal drug and alcohol testing requirements.

The free virtual sessions provide valuable information for Designated Employer Representatives (DERs), transit managers, compliance personnel, and other professionals responsible for administering federally required drug and alcohol testing programs.

October 28: Post-Accident Testing — Thresholds & Scenarios

Wednesday, October 28, 2026

10:00–11:30 a.m. Central

Virtual | Free Registration

FTA will host a 90-minute training session focused on post-accident drug and alcohol testing requirements.

The session will examine common post-accident scenarios and provide guidance on applying FTA regulations when determining whether testing is required.

Topics include:

• Post-accident testing thresholds and requirements.
• Evaluating different accident scenarios.
• Making appropriate testing decisions.
• Understanding testing time limits.
• Properly documenting testing decisions and procedures.
• Best practices for maintaining compliance.

Participants will also have an opportunity to ask questions.

This session is recommended for both new and experienced Designated Employer Representatives and transit professionals responsible for managing drug and alcohol testing programs.

Additional Training: Drug & Alcohol Program MIS Reporting

FTA is also offering three free virtual training sessions covering the Drug and Alcohol Program Management Information System (MIS) reporting process.

Each 90-minute session will present the same information, allowing participants to select the date that best fits their schedules.

Available Training Dates:

• December 16, 2026: 10:00–11:30 a.m. Central
• January 26, 2027: 1:00–2:30 p.m. Central
• March 3, 2027: 11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Central

The training will provide an overview of MIS reporting instructions and expectations, including a live demonstration of the reporting system.

Participants will learn more about completing required reports, understanding reporting procedures, and navigating the MIS reporting website.

The sessions are particularly beneficial for new DERs and program managers, although experienced personnel are also encouraged to participate as a refresher.

Registration Information

All sessions are offered at no cost.

Early registration is encouraged, as training sessions may fill quickly.

Register through FTA's Drug & Alcohol Training Portal:

https://transit-safety.fta.dot.gov/DrugAndAlcohol/Training/Default.aspx

Registered participants will receive meeting access information on the morning of their scheduled session.

SWTA Encourages Member Participation

Maintaining a strong understanding of federal drug and alcohol testing requirements is an important part of transit agency safety and compliance.

SWTA encourages members throughout our eight-state region to take advantage of these free professional development opportunities and share the information with the appropriate staff within their organizations.

For additional information, visit the FTA Drug & Alcohol Training Portal.