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Showing posts from 2009

South Dakota Women's Blood Alcohol Content Breaks State Record!

A South Dakota driver was found earlier this month passed out behind the wheel of a delivery truck. Police found Marguerite Engle slouched over and smelling of alcohol. When Engle was tested her blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was .708 which was almost 9 times the state's legal limit of .08! To add insult to injury, the truck Ms. Engle was driving happened to be stolen! Ms. Engle was arrested, hospitalized and then released on bond. State’s Attorney Jesse Sondreal speculated that the .708 BAC might be the highest ever recorded in South Dakota! Sondreal noted that a blood-alcohol level of .40 is considered a lethal dose for about 50 percent of the population. "Per Se" Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Level - Most states have DUI laws that deem "per se intoxicated" any driver with a blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) at or above .08 percent. This means that drivers with a BAC at or above .08 are intoxicated in the eyes of the law, and no additional proof of dr

Mobile Medical Corporation (MMC) is a Proud Sponsor of the Maryland Special Olympics and the 14th Annual Polar Bear Plunge!

Mobile Medical Corporation (MMC) is proud to sponsor "Polar Bear Plunger" - Amanda Sumpter in the Maryland Special Olympics' 14th Annual Polar Bear Plunge. To learn more about Plungapalooza 2010 and the Maryland Special Olympics please visit here . Mobile Medical Corporation (MMC) is a National Third Party Administrator of multi-leveled drug testing and occupational healthcare solutions with a specialization in labor management cooperative programs and on-site nursing and first-aid station logistics.

T'was the Week Before Christmas and A Breath Alcohol Test For Santa!

While visiting Wisconsin before his annual trip next week- Santa Claus was caught stumbling out of a vehicle (not sleigh). Santa surprised local children by laughing and playing with them while questioning them on the location of his reindeer. Obviously jolly ol' Saint Nick had a little too much holiday cheer in him and his driver went a little heavy on the egg nog. Santa was cited for an open container and his driver received a DUI .

Another Pittsburgh Firefighter Arrested on Drug Charges Leads to Louder Calls For Random Drug Testing

Another Pittsburgh Firefighter has been arrested on drug charges adding to this years growing list of Pittsburgh firefighters who have had problems with substance abuse. Pittsburgh Firefighter Brian Jackson has been arrested and charged with possessing cocaine and marijuana. Chief Darryl Jones of the Pittsburgh Fire Bureau says, "Jackson's arrest shows that random drug testing in the bureau can wait no longer to protect the firefighters, their co-workers and the public." Jones added, "I believe random drug testing is going to identify how extensive the dependency problem the fire bureau has ... And, I believe it will open up some doors to give us some clue on how best to deal with that problem." Recent incidents of substance abuse involving Pittsburgh Firefighters: Firefighter John Connors: The city tried to fire Connors after a guilty plea to drug possession only to have their decision overturned by a firefighters tribunal. The tribunal returned Connors to t

San Francisco Public Utilities Commission Certifies Mobile Medical Corporation (MMC) as Drug Testing TPA

Mobile Medical Corporation (MMC) is now an approved Third Party Administrator (TPA) of substance abuse testing for the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission. MMC is now authorized to perform rapid alcohol testing and instant on-site urine drug testing for the commissions Bay Tunnel Water System Improvement Program. MMC is a certified Woman Business Enterprise and has over 20 years of experience in providing solution based medical and risk management programs for the construction industry. MMC’s Substance Abuse Testing solutions are designed to meet all San Francisco Public Utilities Commission testing requirements. MMC can provide convenient instant on-site drug testing for all pre-employment, reasonable cause and post-accident testing as well as rapid alcohol testing and collection . MMC's award winning technology makes drug testing easier as our online state-of-the-art verification platform SkillCheck™ will allow you to easily track and view worker’s test results from one c

Marijuana Use Up Among Teens While Abuse of Other Drugs Drop

A recent Federal study found that while marijuana usage among teens isn't as high as the late 1990's it has definitely edged back up. According to the study of 47,097 students, among this year's 12th graders, 20.6 percent said they used it within the past month, compared with 19.4 percent in 2008 and 18.3 percent in 2006. Among 10th graders, pot use in the past month rose to 15.9 percent this year from 13.8 percent in 2008. Officials blame the rise in use of marijuana to the national debate on medical marijuana. Officials believe that teens are taking the view that the drug is safer because of its medicinal use. "When the perception of the danger goes down, you see an increase in use," said National Institute on Drug Abuse Director Nora Volkow. Cigarette use patterns showed a continuation of the dramatic drop from a decade ago. In 1997, 19.4 percent of eighth graders reported smoking within a month. That fell to 6.8 percent last year and 6.5 percent this year. Th

Missouri House Bill No. 1280 Seeks to Punish Drug Test Cheats

Missouri State Rep. Jeff Roorda recently pre-filed House Bill No. 1280 . If the bill is enacted it would add three new sections to the law relating to altering or falsifying drug or alcohol tests or test results, with penalty provisions. According to the Examiner.com , the bill will criminalize falsifying drug or alcohol test results, as well as make products designed to do so illegal. Sales or free distribution of such products would be a misdemeanor, while using such products would be a felony. Pittsburgh based Mobile Medical Corporation (MMC) with offices nationwide can help you with all of your substance abuse testing needs. MMC works closely with all clients to establish secure, affordable and focused drug testing protocols that comply with both the Department of Transportation (DOT) and Non-Federal testing programs. Contact MMC today and mention this blog to receive a free analysis of your current substance abuse testing proposal or to request further drug and alcohol testing

Construction Accidents In Hawaii on the Downturn Due to Increased Safety Measures

The number of workplace injuries on construction jobs in Hawaii has dropped over the past eight years. The drop in injuries is reflective of the enhanced safety programs that have been enacted throughout the private and public sectors. The U.S. Department of Labor estimated that there were 6.2 cases of workplace injury or illness for every 100 Hawaiian construction employees in 2008. In 2003 the injury rate was at 10.3. The 2008 injury rate on the Mainland U.S. was 4.7. When looking to further decrease job site injury rates and tighten the metric of loss work time due to off-site medical treatment, employers should look at adding on-site medical services and comprehensice drug and alcohol testing to all long term construction projects. Mobile Medical Corporation (MMC) is a premier provider of on-site Medical Facilities and First Aid Stations that allow our clients to maximize both health and safety standards on their job sites. MMC's First Aid Stations are operated by medical pro

Toledo Suspends Two Cops Over Drug Testing Results

According to a story in the Toledo Blade , two police officers on the Toledo, Ohio police force were recently suspended for alleged drug use - specifically marijuana. in light of the suspensions the Toledo Police Department randomly screened 48 patrol officers for drugs with urine tests. Police Chief Michale Navarre stated, "The public expects and should demand that police officers that are given this authority - a badge, a gun, authority to make arrests - are of the highest caliber and should be the most physically and mentally fit, they are not individuals who use illegal drugs." When it comes to quality drug testing solutions , employers, contractors, union officers, hiring managers and risk mitigation professionals should solely rely on a professional drug testing firm like Mobile Medical Corporation (MMC). Mobile Medical Corporation (MMC) can help you with all of your substance abuse testing needs. MMC works closely with all clients to establish focused policies and te

Medical Marijuana Laws Increasingly Having Employers Dazed and Confused

With Medical Marijuana being legal in 13 States and a half dozen more considering the issue, employers are scrambling for advice on how to approach workers who smoke pot for medicinal purposes. Danielle Urban an Atlanta lawyer interprets federal law that employers are not prohibited from taking adverse actions against someone who tests positive for marijuana but throw into the mix medical marijuana and the legal argument becomes unclear as Colorado permits medical marijuana and another state says it's illegal for an employer to fire someone for engaging in legal, off-duty behavior. Employers also have to take into consideration the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA). According to Law.com - Under the ADA, an employee fired for using pot for health reasons could file a discrimination lawsuit. Seeking help from the U.S. Department of Justice most likely wont yield any clarity either as the department decided in September of 2009 not to prosecute medical marijuana users. The Suprem

Federal Legislation Could Increase OSHA Penalties at the State Level

In a state like Wyoming who owns the nations worst workplace fatality rate, the support for tougher OSHA penalties and sanctions is growing. Two of the most serious types of citations that Wyoming OSHA can issue are for “repeat” violations and “willful” violations. A repeat violation can be as minor as not wearing safety glasses or as serious as not using fall protection gear. Two or more of those violations within a three-year period triggers a repeat violation. Wyoming Governor recently stated, "Frankly, I’m fine with it. I know people don’t like it, but if you grab people by the wallet, their hearts and minds will follow. I think it’s an appropriate action for the government to take.” To read more visit here .

Adult Cigarette Smoking on the Rise

Cigarette smoking among adults has risen to almost 21%, the highest rate in 15 years. Vince Willmore a spokesman for the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids stated that, “Clearly, we’ve hit a wall in reducing adult smoking." Health officials believe the increase is due to cuts in tobacco control campaigns and gains by big tobacco to circumnavigate anti-smoking advertisements. Dr. Clyde Yancy, president of the American Heart Association said "Cigarette marketing has persisted and is effectively reaching children and minorities with messages about flavored or menthol products." Dr. Thomas Frieden, the CDC's director is more positive as he said, "In general, when people have less money, they smoke less." Whether it is from the recession or increased taxes only time will tell. Cigarette smoking is the leading preventable cause of death and illness in the United States and is a cause of cancers, heart disease, and other conditions.

MMC On-site Nursing Services at San Antonio Military Medical Center Construction Project

Mobile Medical Corporation ( MMC ) was recently chosen to provide comprehensive on-site medical services to Clark/Hunt Construction, A Joint Venture - San Antonio Military Medical Center - North construction project. MMC's industry pioneering on-site nursing and first aid stations will be responsible for administering initial new hire safety training, providing first responder medical treatment and conducting pre-employment and follow up substance abuse testing and biological monitoring for the project.

Substance Abuse Fact Sheet: INHALANTS

Inhalants are a diverse group of volatile substances whose chemical vapors can be inhaled to produce psychoactive (mind-altering) effects. While other abused substances can be inhaled, the term “inhalants” is used to describe substances that are rarely, if ever, taken by any other route of administration. A variety of products common in the home and workplace contain substances that can be inhaled to get high; however, people do not typically think of these products (e.g., spray paints, glues, and cleaning fluids) as drugs because they were never intended to induce intoxicating effects. Inhalant Types Volatile solvents —liquids that vaporize at room temperature Industrial or household products, including paint thinners or removers, degreasers, dry-cleaning fluids, gasoline, and lighter fluid Art or office supply solvents, including correction fluids, felt-tip marker fluid, electronic contact cleaners, and glue Aerosols —sprays that contain propellants and solvents Household aerosol pr

Pro Golfer Suspended Under PGA Drug Testing Policy

Professional golfer Doug Barron has recently been suspended from the PGA tour for failing a drug test . Barron is the first golfer to test positive since the substance testing policy was implemented in July 2008. Barron is not a high profile golfer so the PGA has dodged a media circus on the programs first positive test. In the bigger scheme of things we now know that the royal game of golf is not immune to substance abusers and has taken its rightful place in line with baseball, football and all other sports that are plagued with substance abuse and cheating.

Pittsburgh City Firefighters Will Be Tested for Drug Use

The Pittsburgh City Firefighters Union and City Management representatives have in essence agreed to implement a new drug testing policy. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported that the proposed testing policy will likely include "random drug tests, terminations of repeat violators and a fairer playing field when discipline is disputed." Pittsburgh Mayor, Luke Ravenstahl has high regards for the policy as he recently placed his stamp of approval on it. This year was an eye-opening year for the city of Pittsburgh as two Firefighters were involved high profile drug related incidents. Firefighter John Connors: The city tried to fire Connors after a guilty plea to drug possession only to have their decision overturned by a firefighters tribunal. The tribunal returned Connors to the field as they deemed the city improperly demanded a drug test. Firefighter Vincent Manzella: In support of his heroin addiction, Manzella would call in false alarms to empty out his station and then b

Mobile Medical Corporation (MMC) Providing Industry Leading On-Site Medical Solutions to SNC Lavalin New York Power Plant Project

Mobile Medical Corporation (MMC) was recently chosen to provide comprehensive on-site medical services to SNC Lavalin's Astoria Energy II new natural gas power plant in greater New York City. MMC's industry pioneering on-site nursing and first aid stations will be responsible for administering initial new hire safety training, providing first responder medical treatment and conducting pre-employment and follow up substance abuse testing and biological monitoring for the project. SNC-Lavalin is one of the leading groups of engineering and construction companies in the world, a major player in the ownership of infrastructure, and in operations and maintenance services. The SNC-Lavalin companies have offices across Canada and in 35 other countries around the world, and are currently working in some 100 countries. Mobile Medical Corporation (MMC) is a premier provider of quality substance abuse testing and occupational healthcare programs nationwide. MMC offers complete and comp

Celebrate National Drug-Free Work Week MMC Style!

Mobile Medical Corporation (MMC) began National Drug-Free Work Week 2009 on Monday by participating in The Union Construction Industry Partnership's Kick-Off Breakfast. MMC's Vice President Marianne Karg who played an integral part in hosting the breakfast claimed that the event was a great success. National Drug-Free Work Week is an annual campaign led by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Working Partners for an Alcohol- and Drug-Free Workplace program. The "Kick-Off" Breakfast was host to several guests including U.S. Department of Labor Policy Coordinator, Elena Carr. Also speaking at the engagement were Robert Banks of the Ironworker Management Progressive Action Cooperative Trust (IMPACT), Wayne Creasap of the The Association of Union Contractors (TAUC) and Jim Joyner of Jim Joyner and Associates, LLC.

Synthetic Human Urine Employed To Pass Drug Tests

A report from Channel 4 news out of Nashville, TN has brought to light the use of synthetic urine for cheating drug tests. The fake urine is manufactured and sold in novelty and gag shops and is the newest weapon that drug users are turning to to defeat drug testing . The manufacturer's disclaimer on the packaging states that the product should not be used for unlawful purposes... Well, one wonders what other purposes synthetic urine would be used for if not for cheating on drug tests. Actual quotes from store clerks who have sold and even used the synthetic urine: "I've never had anyone who did it right fail, including me." ... "Mine went through a lab, and I got my life insurance. I'm telling you, this stuff is amazing." "I've got some synthetic urine, if you don't mind sneaking it in there, that passed every test that's thrown at it." "Your synthetic would be the best way to go," Drug testing companies and authorities

Eliminating Drug & Alcohol Abuse From Your Workforce

Marianne Karg, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Mobile Medical Corporation (MMC) writes in the fall 2009 edition of The Construction User magazine that "Addiction is an equal opportunity employer." The article titled "Eliminating drug and alcohol abuse from your workforce" is an informative article that delves into substance abuse testing in the workplace. To read the article click here and scroll to page 14. Mobile Medical Corporation (MMC) can help you with all of your substance abuse testing needs. MMC works closely with all clients to establish affordable and focused drug testing protocols that comply with both the Department of Transportation (DOT) and Non-Federal testing programs. Contact MMC today and ask about our suite of our instant drug testing solutions. Call today for a free program review! (888) 662-8358

Illinois Man Caught Cheating on Urine Drug Test

By strapping a condom of another person's urine to his leg and using a hidden razor blade to cut the condom and access the urine is how Justin Head planned on passing his drug test . Head was caught even before he was able to enter the testing area. He was arrested when an official in the probation department caught him with a piece of razor blade he had smuggled into the courthouse in his mouth. Sheriff's Sgt. Michael Cisner said "He was going to cut (the condom of urine) open with the razor blade and use it as his sample." Court records indicate Head was required to undergo the drug test as part of a court supervision sentence he received last year in a 2008 misdemeanor marijuana possession case. According to the Chicago Daily Herald a judge set Head's bond at $10,000. He is scheduled to return to court soon.

Fed Opening Eyes to Veiled Jobsite Injuries

The Federal Government is launching a new national offensive against companies who hide workplace injuries in order to avoid safety inspections. The new program will scrutinize industries that are categorized as dangerous and who have an unusually low injury reporting statistic. Jordan Barab, The Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) acting chief, told the Observer. "Accurate record-keeping can really determine whether workers live or die in the workplace, or be healthy or unhealthy," Barab concluded, "We want to make sure that OSHA is actually targeting its resources where they need to be targeted." To read the full article click here .

Educational Tools for Flu Prevention

Each year approximately 5% to 20% of the U.S. population contract some level of the seasonal flu virus. This year with the prediction of a "Swine" flu outbreak those numbers could rise. Besides inoculating your workforce, MMC would like to offer the following tools to help keep your workplace healthy during flu season. Click below for free downloandable materials for your office and jobsite! CDC - How Germs Spread Minnesota Department of Health - Cover Your Cough! Lysol Brands - An Ounce of Protection U.S. Department of Health and Human Services - I Can't Cover My Shift Mobile Medical Corporation (MMC) is a premier provider of On-Site Drug Testing , Occupational Healthcare solutions and First Responder Nursing and First Aid Station management. Mobile Medical Corporation (MMC) has scalable services to fit any testing need. Call today for a free consultation! 888-662-8358

Almost 34 Million Employees Lit Up a Cigarette at Work Last Month

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) recently posted findings from their study titled "Cigarette Use among Adults Employed Full Time, by Occupational Category. The study showed that 33.6 million full-time workers aged 18 to 64 (or 28 percent of persons in this category) reported that they smoked cigarettes in the past month based on combined 2006 to 2008 survey data. Groups With Highest Smoking Rate Per Past Month Cigarette Use: Food preparation and serving-related occupations - 44.7 percent Construction work and mining (or extraction work) - 42.9 percent Groups With Lowest Smoking Rate Per Past Month Cigarette Use: Education, training and library occupations - 12.3 percent Life, physical and social sciences area - 15.4 percent SAMHSA Acting Administrator, Eric Broderick, D.D.S., M.P.H. stated, “The study provides important insight and updated information that can be used to assist in developing or refining smoking cessation efforts for specific

New Oxycodone Formula Gets Backing of FDA

The FDA recently voted in favor of pushing a new formulation of oxycodone hydrochloride for approval. The new OxyContin formula is more difficult to crush or dissolve which will hopefully make it harder to be used as a drug of abuse . The FDA recommended that Purdue Pharma's application for a new, resin-coated formulation should replace the original version, which has been on the market since 1996. Randall Flick, MD, an anesthesiologist at the Mayo Clinic who voted to recommend approval of the drug said, "Clearly the old formulation is worse than the new, although I think the difference is relatively small," Flick concluded, "Hardcore abusers are likely to devise new ways to break down the harder tablet or figure out which solvents will dissolve it fastest, within 'day or weeks' of the product's release on the market."

Mobile Medical Corporation Unveils New Enhanced Website

Pittsburgh based Mobile Medical Corporation (MMC) reaches yet another historic company milestone by unveiling its exciting new website! MMC's redesigned website provides its users with a more focused and streamlined approach to accessing all of MMC's rich services including substance abuse testing, on-site industrial medical and occupational healthcare resources and solutions. Users can now seamlessly navigate through the new site with ease as enhanced mapping and architecture bring users directly to their destination. Same Easy to Use Log-in process. There will be absolutley no changes to how MMC's clients and contractors access drug testing results and other important information Easy, str eamlined navigation More industry news and information About Mobile Medical Corporation (MMC): Mobile Medical Corporation (MMC) is a National Third Party Administrator of multi-leveled drug testing and occupational healthcare solutions and is a pioneer in onsite nursing and first-aid s

Initial Swine Flu Vaccination Will be Nasal

The initial roll out of swine flu vaccinations will take the form of a nasal spray. The Center for Disease Control reported that 3.4 million doses of MedImmune's needle-free nose spray will be available the first week of October. The CDC's Dr Jay Butler said eventually delivery would rise to about 20 million doses a week. Originally - the swine flu vaccination was to be given through 2 injections that were spaced out over a 2 or 3 week period.

CDC's 2009 H1N1 Swine Flu Situation September Update

Weekly Influenza Activity Estimates Reported by State and Territorial Epidemiologists. Activity levels indicate geographic spread of both seasonal and 2009 influenza and the H1N1 Swine Flu viruses. (P osted September 11, 2009, 7:00 PM ET, for Week Ending September 5, 2009)

Drug Testing Hits the Memphis Campaign Trail

Memphis Mayoral Candidate Charles Carpenter recently took a drug test to show the public he does not abuse drugs. Carpenter believes that it's something everybody seeking the top spot should do. He stated, "It should also be required of the person who runs the city of Memphis." Carpenter's lead should be followed on both the local and national levels both in politics as well as in all workplaces. Over the years companies nationwide have been increasingly drug testing employees from top to bottom as way to help keep job sites safe as well as to stave off negligent hiring law suits. MMC understands that in today’s business and economic environment, risk management professionals and employers alike are looking to continuously improve job-site safety and workplace compliance . And that is why companies nationwide continually utilize MMC’s vast array of cost efficient and diverse testing programs to maintain a better and safe work environment. Email or Call us today to f

DOT Direct Observation Drug Testing Now Mandatory

The Department of Transportation's Direct Observation collection procedures is now mandatory for all return-to-duty and follow-up drug testing. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit lifted the previous stay on July 1, 2009, following the Court’s unanimous decision to uphold the DOT's position in this matter. The language of 49 CFR 40.67(b) now reverts back to the version that became a final rule on June 25, 2008 which reads as follows: § 40.67 When and how is a directly observed collection conducted? (b) As an employer, you must direct a collection under direct observation of an employee if the drug test is a return-to-duty test or a follow-up test.

MMC Does It All! Drug Testing, Job-Site First-Aid Services, Occupational Healthcare And Even Flu Vaccinations!

Mobile Medical Corporation (MMC) is a premier provider of quality substance abuse testing and occupational healthcare programs nationwide. MMC offers complete and compliant packages of industry required physical exams and bio-monitoring solutions and when it comes to onsite nursing and first aid station management in the construction field – MMC is the standard bearer. MMC also offers SkillCheck - a unique suite of worker/employee credential tracking solutions which can strategically manage all of your employees testing results, trainings and industry certifications. MMC understands that in today’s business and economic environment, risk management professionals and employers alike are looking to continuously improve job-site safety and workplace compliance . And that is why companies nationwide continually utilize MMC’s vast array of cost efficient and diverse testing programs to maintain a better and safe work environment. Email or Call us today to find out how MMC can help keep y

Denver Group Looks To Lower Fines on Marijuana Possession

The Denver Post has reported that a recent letter to the Denver County judiciary urged the court to lower the fine for possession of marijuana of less than one ounce to $1.00. The current penalty for possession of marijuana of less than one ounce is $50.00, plus a $100.00 state surcharge accompanied by a $10.00 bureau fee. Fines would still include the $100.00 state surcharge accompanied by a $10.00 bureau fee. Mason Tvert, a member of the panel and the executive director of Safer Alternative for Enjoyable Recreation, which has pushed decriminalizing possession of small amounts of marijuana , said "lowering the fine would send a message to police "that it is not worth their time or the court's to issue any more citations."

Hamming It Up... CDC Sells Swine Flu Toys!?

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) located in Atlanta, Georgia has stocked Swine Flu toys for sale in a section of their souvenir shop. Channel 11 news in Atlanta reported that "the stuffed toy is intended to look like a microbe and also resembles a pig snout." The Swine Flu toy sells for about $8.00 and it comes with an information booklet about the H1N1 Swine Flu virus . Contact MMC and let us schedule your 2009/2010 Workplace Flu Shot Clinic ! Call Today - 888-662-8358 x 104

CDC's 2009 H1N1 Flu Situation Update

Weekly Influenza Activity Estimates Reported by State and Territorial Epidemiologists Activity levels indicate geographic spread of both seasonal and 2009 influenza and the H1N1 Swine Flu viruses Posted August 21, 2009, 7:30 PM ET, for Week Ending August 15, 2009) Let Mobile Medical Corporation (MMC) take care of all the logistics and provide you with the know-how and focused solutions to protect your staff from the rapidly advancing “Seasonal Flu.” Contact MMC and let us know you are interested in scheduling your 2009/2010 Workplace Flu Shot Clinic! Call 888-662-8358 Today!

REPORT TO THE PRESIDENT ON U.S. PREPARATIONS FOR 2009 INFLUENZA

The following are "Flu Facts" from President Obama's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology: Influenza epidemics cannot be prevented with currently available tools, but four categories of methods are available to mitigate the effects of an epidemic: 1. Vaccines to prevent infection. For seasonal influenza, vaccines reduce the risk of serious disease in infants and children, pregnant women, older adults, people who have chronic medical conditions,or those who might infect high-risk people through their work or household contact. 2. Antiviral drugs to decrease the likelihood of infection or severe disease in uninfected individuals (usually those with known or suspected exposure); to reduce the severity and duration of disease in patients already infected and ill; and to lower the rate of virus shedding in infected individuals, thereby decreasing the likelihood of transmission to others. 3. Medical care to manage clinical illness, which may range from mild to extre

Mexico Legalizes Minimum Possession of Drugs

Mexico's new ruling to legalize small amounts of narcotics seems to lean towards curbing corruption and extortion of casual users by Mexican police rather than the safety of it's public in whole. The provision does call for mandatory rehabilitation after three fouls. The Associated Press reported that "the new law sets out maximum "personal use" amounts for drugs , also including LSD and methamphetamine. People detained with those quantities no longer face criminal prosecution." Bernardo Espino del Castillo of the attorney general's office stated, "in practice, small users almost never did face charges anyway. Under the previous law, the possession of any amount of drugs was punishable by stiff jail sentences, but there was leeway for addicts caught with smaller amounts." Espino del Castillo concluded, "The bad thing was that it was left up to the discretion of the detective, and it could open the door to corruption or extortion." Go

2009/2010 Influenza "Flu" Advisory #2

Health Industry Experts are reporting that the swine flu vaccination that will be available this coming fall will possibly require two vaccinations that will need to be spaced about three to four weeks apart. According to the Los Angeles Times, Health Officials are claiming that the swine flu vaccination does not provoke as strong an immune response as does the seasonal flu vaccine, it may be necessary to administer two doses of the swine-flu inoculation for it to be most effective. "If two doses are needed, they will be given perhaps three to four weeks apart" said Dr. Jonathan Fielding, Los Angeles County’s health officer. The Novel H1N1 vaccine is not intended to replace the Seasonal Flu vaccine – it is intended to be used along-side seasonal flu vaccine. Let MMC take care of all the logistics and provide you with the know-how and focused solutions to protect your staff from the rapidly advancing “Flu” season. Contact MMC To Schedule Your 2009/2010 Workplace Flu Shot Clin

2009/2010 Influenza "Flu" Advisory

Flu outbreaks occur more frequently in the Fall and Winter when cooler weather is prevalent. In colder weather people obviously spend more time indoors and congregate in closer proximity making it easier for the virus to spread. WebMD states that "The flu virus can survive longer periods indoors in winter because the relative humidity of indoor air is very low in comparison to the outside air." As a way to prevent the flu, Mobile Medical Corporation (MMC) advises individuals to wash their hands often in order to kill germs and bacteria. MMC also recommends a flu shot. In years when the vaccine strains and the virus strains are well-matched, the vaccine can reduce the chances of getting the “Flu” by 70%-90% in healthy adults. Let MMC take care of all the logistics and provide you with the know-how and focused solutions to protect your staff from the rapidly advancing “Flu” season. Contact MMC To Schedule Your 2009/2010 Workplace Flu Shot Clinic! Call 888-662-8358 x 104 Today

2009 Mobile Medical Corporation Golf Outing Finds Champion

Mobile Medical Corporation (MMC) is proud to declare Mr. Bob Efaw of Minnotte Contracting the winner of this years 2009 MMC Summer Golf Classic - Congratulations Bob! Mobile Medical Corporation recently held its annual Summer Golf Outing at the South Hills Country Club in Pittsburgh PA. The field consisted of close to 45 golfers from the construction and labor industries. Dinner was held afterwards at the club's main dining room as a thanks to all of the participants for their attendance and continued support of MMC's mission to help keep jobsites across America safe and drug free! MMC hopes to see everyone again next year!

Novel H1N1 "Swine Flu" UPDATE

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has reported that a Novel H1N1 vaccine is currently in production and may be ready for the public in the fall. The Novel H1N1 vaccine is not intended to replace the Seasonal Flu vaccine – it is intended to be used along-side seasonal flu vaccine. MMC is closely monitoring the CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) report on the Novel H1N1 vaccination production effort in order to counter a possibly severe upcoming flu season. Let MMC take care of all the logistics and provide you with the know-how and focused solutions to protect your staff from the rapidly advancing Seasonal Flu . Contact MMC for more information on your 2009/2010 Workplace Flu Shot Clinic! Call 888-662-8358 Today!

Global Update - Aussies Roll Out Drug Testing Fleet

In an even greater effort to clamp down on intoxicated drivers, the police force in New South Wales, Australia has rolled out their new state-of-the-art drug testing vans. The new vans are equipped with wireless Evidential Breath Analysis instruments, mobile data terminals, and storage for RDT samples. The new vehicles will increase the police force's armada to a total of 13. Vehicles in service include: 5 new drug testing vans along with 3 older roadside units which are equipped to test motorists for the presence of drugs as well as five random breath testing vans. In New South Wales, over 37,700 drug tests have been conducted and over 820 drivers have tested positive since the implementation of roadside screening in 2006 and of the 820 drivers who tested positive for the presence of drugs, the majority came from combinations of cannabis, ecstasy and Methamphetamine. Minister for Police, Tony Kelly explained that “Drug driving is a serious crime and any driver on drugs can serious

Anti-Depressant Drug Use Rapidly Growing Among Americans

Between 1996 and 2005 the use of antidepressants among Americans has doubled. By 2005 there were approximately 27 million people with prescriptions for antidepressant pharmaceuticals. A leading drug research firm recently reported that more than 164 million prescriptions were written in 2008 for antidepressants, totaling $9.6 billion in U.S. sales. A series of clinical trials in 2003 showed that antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children and teens. After the 2003 study public health warnings on use of antidepressant drugs began to appear. Dr. Mark Olfson of Columbia University and Steven Marcus of the University of Pennsylvania wrote in the Archives of General Psychiatry that "Not only are more U.S. residents being treated with antidepressants, but also those who are being treated are receiving more antidepressant prescriptions."

DOT Direct Observation Drug Testing Procedure Ruled Mandatory

Announcement As of August 31, 2009, the Department of Transportation's Direct Observation collection procedures will be mandatory for all return-to-duty and follow-up drug testing. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit lifted the previous stay on July 1, 2009, following the Court’s unanimous decision to uphold the DOT's position in this matter. The language of 49 CFR 40.67(b) now reverts back to the version that became a final rule on June 25, 2008 which reads as follows: § 40.67 When and how is a directly observed collection conducted? (b) As an employer, you must direct a collection under direct observation of an employee if the drug test is a return-to-duty test or a follow-up test. Collective Bargaining Agreements The recent announcement also states that the DOT is aware that some employers and labor organizations may have entered into collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) that prohibit or limit the use of direct observation collections in return-to-duty and foll

Talent Pool Swells as Unemployment Rises... So Why Not Drug Test?

With the national unemployment rate recently rising to almost double digits due to the continuing economic recession, employers now find themselves in a strange situation looking into a vast pool of labor to choose from. Employers who are still looking to add to their payroll can now take the time to seek out talented individuals that are capable of wearing multiple "hats" and in return get more "bang" out of their payroll dollar. To find these workplace heroes, employers should take the substance abuse testing process for granted. Employers should heavily consider multi-leveled drug testing, background screening, credential reviews and include using various Occupational Healthcare solutions. Proper screening etiquette will allow employers to find the stellar multi-talented candidates that they desire. Drug Screening and Background Investigations enhance workplace safety, negate negligent hiring litigation and provide a clearer picture of candidates overall labor hi

Drug Czar: Marijuana Legalization Is Not In President Obama's Vocabulary

While on patrol with the Fresno County Sheriff's department last week, the Director of the White House's Office of National Drug Control Policy, Gil Kerlikowske exclaimed, "The federal government will not support legalizing marijuana." The patrol was part of Operation SOS -- Save Our Sierra -- which is an effort to eradicate marijuana in Fresno County, California. The Fresno Bee reported that a recent 10 day round up operation in the foot hills of Fresno County resulted in the capture of more than one million dollars worth of marijuana crops and the arrest of 82 people. Kerlikowske believes that Marijuana is dangerous , addictive and has no medicinal benefits and should not be used as a tax crutch for increasingly cash strapped government agencies in California. Operation SOS was hatched in February and since then more than 314,000 plants were uprooted in 70 gardens. Agents have also seized $41,000 in cash, 26 firearms and three vehicles.

Prescription Drug Overdoses Reach 2,000 in Montana

The Montana Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation cited that more than 2,000 people died from prescription drug overdoses in Montana between 2001 and 2008. Their were 321 recorded deaths from prescription drugs statewide in 2008 with more than 200 of them involving narcotic painkiller overdoses. Mark Long, chief of the DCI narcotics bureau said, " Hydrocodone, Oxycodone, Methadone and Fentanyl are the four most commonly abused prescription painkillers." OxyContin has become a target for abusers because of the larger amounts of the active ingredient in relation to other previous oxycodone products and the ability of abusers to easily compromise the controlled release formulation. Simply crushing the tablet can negate the timed effect of the drug, enabling abusers to swallow, inhale, or inject the drug, which is water soluble, for a powerful morphine-like high. Jim Hutchinson, a toxicologist with the Montana state crime lab said "Anti-depressants, slee

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Launch Employment Eligibility Audits to Deter Illegal Hiring

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) recently launched a targeted audit on U.S. businesses to check worker eligibility. Notices were sent to 652 U.S. owned businesses to notify them that ICE will be inspecting their hiring records to determine whether or not they are complying with employment eligibility verification laws and regulations. Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary for ICE John stated, “ICE is committed to establishing a meaningful I-9 inspection program to promote compliance with the law. This nationwide effort is a first step in ICE’s long-term strategy to address and deter illegal employment.”

California Looks To Marijuana For Bail Out

The Associated Press is reporting that California is contemplating legislation to tax and regulate marijuana like it does alcohol. San Francisco Democratic Assemblyman Tom Ammiano introduced the bill in February. The bill would allow adults to legally possess, grow and sell marijuana. Officials that are for the tax and legalization of marijuana, believe that it would generate nearly $1.4 billion in revenue. The California State Board of Equalization reported that marijuana retail sales would bring an estimated $990 million from a $50-per-ounce fee and $392 million in sales taxes. Ammiano has promoted the bill as a way to help bridge the state's $26.3 billion budget shortfall. As the bill is written, the state could not begin collecting taxes under the bill until the federal government legalizes marijuana. A spokesman says Ammiano plans to amend the bill to remove that stipulation.

OXYCONTIN FACT SHEET

As a premier provider of workplace substance abuse testing nationwide, Mobile Medical Corporation (MMC) would like to shed some light on the ever growing problem of OxyContin addiction. The information contained in this blog comes from sources within the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). OxyContin is a narcotic drug that was approved by FDA for the treatment of moderate to severe pain. OxyContin contains Oxycodone HCl, an opioid agonist with an addiction potential similar to that of morphine. The pharmacological effects of OxyContin, a brand name formulation of the Schedule II narcotic Oxycodone, make it attractive to abusers as it offers reliable strength and dosage levels and may, in some instances, be covered by the abuser's health insurance. Abusers have discovered that the controlled release formula of OxyContin can be easily compromised allowing inhalation or injection for a powerful, morphine-like high. It has been described by s

Oxycodone, Pain Killer Abuse - A New Wave of Drug Addiction

In the state of Florida last year Oxycodone abuse caused more deaths than any other drug - 941 deaths were attributed to the opioid. Almost One third of those deaths occurred in Pasco, Pinellas and Hillsborough counties. Hernando County Detective Cody Silagyi compared the current pain killer problem to the cocaine epidemic of the 1970's. Cody commented, "This is like legalized cocaine." The National Institute on Drug Abuse speculates that legal but highly addictive opioids, depressants and stimulants are increasingly in demand because they're readily accessible. The institute reported that an estimated 6.3 million Americans in 2004 used prescription medications for non-medical purposes. Contact Mobile Medical Corporation's team of substance abuse testing professionals today for more information about Oxcodone and other substance abuse testing protocols! 888-662-8358

Breathe Alcohol Testing Needed

Shaun Campbell faces criminal DUI charges as he was arrested after an accident in New Jersey. His blood-alcohol level tested at .288 percent which is more than triple the state's legal limit. No one was seriously hurt in the accident. DUI incidents like the one involving this New Jersey driver happen way too often but the glaring facts in this story focus on Mr. Campbell's drivers license and how it was previously suspended 78 times and this is also Mr. Campbell's 15th drunken driving offense! Prosecutors are seeking a maximum prison term of nearly three years at Campbell's sentencing and he will lose his license for at least 10 more years.

Drug Addicted Firefighter Charged With Theft of Pittsburgh Firehouse

A suspended Pittsburgh fireman will be facing criminal charges including theft once he exits his currrent drug rehabilitation program. Suspended firefighter Vincent Manzanella repeatedly called in false alarms from local pay phones in order to empty out a city firehouse located at Penn Avenue and East Liberty so he could pillage while the other firemen were out on the false alarm. Manzanella used a city pass code to enter the firehouse to steal money. Manzanella is undergoing drug treatment for heroin addiction and was receiving workers compensation. Public Safety Director Michael Huss would like to begin a drug-testing program for all Pittsburgh firefighters and is a discussion that needs to take place with union officials. When it comes to quality drug testing solutions, employers, contractors, union officers, hiring managers and risk mitigation professionals should solely rely on a professional drug testing firm like Mobile Medical Corporation (MMC). Mobile Medical Corporation (M

Massachusetts Public Employees Facing Random Drug Testing

Massachusetts public employees including the police and firefighters unions could be headed towards random drug testing if the state approves a newly proposed screening bill. Representative Christopher Donelan sponsored the bill that would call for mandatory drug and alcohol tests for public safety employees. Boston Mayor, Bob Menino exclaimed "The people of Boston, as well as the citizens of the entire commonwealth, have a right to know that all reasonable measures are being taken to ensure that our public safety work force is not impaired by alcohol or drugs." President of the Western Massachusetts Police Association, Robert Frydryk stated that "Drug testing itself isn't a bad idea." Bob McCarthy of the Professional Firefighters of Massachusetts would like to see the drug testing worked out through a collective s bargaining agreement. When it comes to quality drug testing solutions , hiring managers and risk mitigation professionals should solely rely on a pro

Utah Debates Drug Testing for Public Assistance

Utah has begun to follow the path that so many other states have traveled earlier this year. The path leads to drug testing for public assistance. Utah Senator Dennis Stowell had asked that the issue be studied carefully and Rep. Christopher Herrod said "If someone's on drugs, we shouldn't be giving them money," he said. "There's nowhere in the Constitution that says, 'You have a right to get welfare." At the center of the debate is cost and legality. An analyst for Community Action Partnership of Utah stated that "The cost to test all Utah’s families that receive 'Temporary Assistance for Needy Families' would be high." The analyst added, "That testing all welfare recipients just once would cost about $255,000 and a lawsuit against the state would likely cost more than $1 million." Further discussion and analysis is planned in the upcoming months to decide whether to study the issue further, table the issue or wait un

Mobile Medical Corporation Recertifies with WBENC

The Women's Business Enterprise Council of PA-DE-sNJ has recently granted re-certification to Pittsburgh based Mobile Medical Corporation (MMC). The Women's Business Enterprise National Council ( WBENC ), founded in 1997, is the nation's leading advocate of women-owned businesses as suppliers to America's corporations. It also is the largest third-party certifier of businesses owned and operated by women in the United States. WBENC works to foster diversity in the world of commerce with programs and policies designed to expand opportunities and eliminate barriers in the marketplace for women business owners. WBENC works with representatives of corporations to encourage the utilization and expansion of supplier/vendor diversity programs.

Legal Notes: Graham County, N.C. Board of Education Random Drug Testing

A recent decision by a North Carolina Court of Appeals recently ruled that the Graham County Board of Education in N.C. violated its employee’s rights by implementing a policy mandating the random, suspicionless drug and alcohol testing of all Board employees. In 2006, all Board employees were subject to an Alcohol and Drug-Free Workplace Policy which required all job applicants to pass an alcohol or drug test as a condition of employment. It required all employees to submit to an alcohol or other drug test upon a supervisor's reasonable cause to believe that the employee was using alcohol or illegal drugs, or abusing prescription drugs, in the workplace. Any employee who was placed on the approved list to drive school system vehicles needed to submit to “random drug tests.” Additionally, the policy mandated the suspension of any employee who, in a supervisor's opinion, was impaired by alcohol or drugs in the workplace. The Board of Education enacted a new testing policy at t

Drinking on the Job in Peru...Perfectly Legal!

This past winter a Peruvian court ruled that fired worker; Pablo Cayo should be given back his old janitorial job. Mr. Cayo was originally dismissed from his city job for being intoxicated while at work. Most responsible companies would dismiss an employee for drinking or being drunk at the workplace and would deduce that it is not sound practice to employee intoxicated workers as they pose a risk to the welfare of other employees as well as the general public. Peru's judicial system, The Constitutional Tribunal has a different take. The Tribunal reversed the firing decision and ruled that workers cannot be fired for being drunk on the job ! Tribunal Judge Fernando Calle stated that "The firing was excessive because even though Cayo was drunk, he did not offend or hurt anybody." Employers and safety officials in Peru have denounced the ruling. Celso Becerra, the administrative chief of Chorrillos, a suburb of Lima, Peru exclaimed "We've fired four workers for sh

International Substance Abuse Testing Snapshot - Ireland

Ireland's Railway Safety Commission (RSC) is considering introducing random substance abuse and alcohol testing for rail workers. The commission already conducts substance abuse and alcohol tests on current rail workers but believes that unannounced tests could further increase safety standards. In 2007 and 2008 random tests were carried out on 156 Irish Rail (Iarnród Eireann) workers and only two tested positive for illegal substances. According to the Irish Sunday Business Post Online - In 26 tests on workers after an ‘‘incident’’, two tested positive for drugs; in another two situations where ‘‘for cause’’ testing was considered necessary, both were positive.

Mobile Medical Corporation - Oral Saliva Drug Testing Quick Facts

Oral saliva drug testing is a method that uses a donor’s saliva to detect drug metabolites. Oral saliva testing is a rather new method and has only been active within the industry for about 5 years. The oral saliva method of drug testing uses a swab collector to sample the saliva in a donor’s mouth. The swap is placed between the lower cheek and gum of the donor for several minutes and once saturated with saliva the swab is immediately transferred to a collection vial and sent to a SAMSHA certified lab for analysis. Contact Mobile Medical Corporation (MMC) today for further information about Oral Saliva Drug Testing. MMC is a premier provider of random drug testing solutions and offers affordable and compliant drug testing campaigns. MMC adheres to all Department of Transportation (DOT), Federal and Non-Federal testing guidelines.