What is a “negative” test for DOT alcohol testing?

DOT regulations regard an alcohol test result of .019, or less, as a negative test.  Even though an alcohol test result of .019 shows the presence of alcohol, DOT rules declare that no action may be taken against that employee.  The company must treat any test result of less than .020 (for example, .019, .010, .008, etc.) the same as if the test result were .000. 

Your job as a BAT is to interpret the numerical alcohol test result as a “negative” test, in which the employee returns to work, or a “positive” test that requires the employee to be removed from safety-sensitive duties.