Random drug testing is random

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Sheri Kangas
  • 1st SOW Public Affairs
HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. --  "Hello, you have just been selected for random urinalysis." 

Common words for some military members and not so for others. As a recent augmentee selected to assist the Hurlburt Field Drug Demand Reduction Program, I have gained a new perspective on how random urinalysis is given and the validity of the program. My first comments are, "It's random." 

All Department of Defense Drug Demand Reduction Programs are required to use a drug testing program software that uses an algorithmitic equation for selecting personnel based on a database pool. The software is non-biased and the selection process is totally random based on the software. 

However, there's a probability of a member being selected one day and providing a specimen and being randomly selected on the next urinalysis testing day after the member is placed back in the testing pool. 

Examine the facts: random drug-testing is vital to the Air Force deterrence effort and is aimed at maintaining the health and wellness of a fit and ready fighting force and a drug-free Air Force community. The use of illegal drugs and the improper use of prescription or over the counter drugs by an Air Force member is a serious breach of discipline and automatically places the member's continued service in jeopardy. 

The Air Force entrusts the smooth operation of the program to its NCOs. 

By regulation, the drug testing staff is required to drug test 65 percent of the Hurlburt Field military members yearly. With a base population of more than 7,500 personnel, more than 6,000 urinalysis specimens must be collected annually.

A minimum of eight days a month are required by DOD regulations to drug test military and civilian members. Hurlburt Field maintains a minimum of twelve days per month because of the large base populace. In short, the three-person staff with a small testing facility must maintain the integrity of program with strict guidelines and legal oversight. 

Great strides are being achieved to provide awareness and deterrence of illegal drug usage. I have to admit after viewing the entire drug testing process from start to finish, the Hurlburt Field DDR Program is one of the finest programs in the United States Air Force.