To Drug Test or Not to Drug Test

To drug test or not to drug test? That is the question on many minds of employers. If federal regulations do not require your place of business to drug test then it’s up to you to set the requirements for drug testing. Here are few situations as an employer you could consider drug testing.

Pre-employment

Unless it is required by state and federal regulations, this kind of testing is conducted to prevent hiring individuals who illegally use drugs. Applicants agree to be tested as a condition of employment and they are not hired if they fail to produce a negative test. This can be a decision that is left to the employer unless state and federal regulations require you to.

Reasonable Suspicion

It can also be known as “probable-cause” or “for-cause” testing, This is usually conducted when supervisors document observable signs and symptoms that lead them to suspect drug use. It’s important to have clear and consistent definitions of what behavior justifies drug and alcohol testing.

Random

This is testing that is performed unannounced. The process should be determined on an unpredictable basis on employees. We recommend this selection be computer generated to ensure that it is random and that each person in the workforce has an equal chance of being selected.

Post-accident

Property damage or personal injury may result from accidents, testing following an accident can help determine whether drugs and/or alcohol were a factor. When this test is being conducted, it’s a good idea for employers not to allow employees involved in any accident to return to work prior to or following the testing until sure of the results.

Return to Duty

This involves a one-time, announced test when an employee who has tested positive has completed the required treatment for substance abuse and is ready to return to the workplace. This can also be used for an employee who has been absent for an extended period of time.

Follow up DOT/Non-DOT

This is applied only to previously suspended employees if rehired. The DOT requires a test upon rehire. A minimum of five follow up drug test are conducted within the 12 months of the rehire. The DOT rules state that these tests must be scheduled randomly through the year, in addition to any reasonable suspicion or post accident tests during the same 12 months.
If you find yourself having to require a drug test or are thinking of implementing a drug test policy,  give us a call. We offer in house drug-testing for all common drugs during business hours including alcohol, hair follicle, and steroid testing. You can either send your employees to us with little to no wait time or we can come to your location!