USCG Designated Employer Representative (DER) Training

The maritime industry operates in a highly regulated environment where safety, readiness, and compliance are essential. Our USCG DER Training Course prepares employers and designated representatives to effectively administer drug and alcohol testing programs for personnel regulated by the United States Coast Guard under 46 CFR Parts 4 and 16.

This course is designed for vessel operators, marine employers, towing companies, offshore operators, passenger vessel operators, shipping companies, and maritime compliance professionals.

Participants will gain a thorough understanding of Coast Guard testing requirements for crewmembers and safety-sensitive maritime personnel. Training focuses on pre-employment testing, random testing, serious marine incident testing, reasonable cause testing, return-to-duty procedures, and annual MIS reporting requirements.

Key learning objectives include:

• Understanding Coast Guard drug and alcohol testing regulations
• Identifying covered crewmembers and safety-sensitive positions
• Managing Serious Marine Incident (SMI) testing requirements
• Maintaining compliant random testing programs
• Coordinating with collection sites, laboratories, and MROs
• Managing positive tests and refusals
• Record retention and audit preparation
• Return-to-duty and follow-up testing procedures
• Best practices for maritime compliance management

Whether operating a commercial vessel, passenger service, towing company, or offshore operation, this training equips DERs with the practical knowledge needed to administer compliant testing programs, reduce risk, and support maritime safety across their organization.