Top 10 Reasons for Positive Drug Test Results

Sure, marijuana is legal in some states, but that doesn’t mean employees are off the hook for a drug test. While some employers may choose to omit marijuana from their drug testing standards, safety-sensitive positions (and those governed by the DOT) will continue to include it. And there’s no chance of drugs like cocaine and opiates becoming legal anytime soon, so why do we continue to hear perplexing reasons for “failed” drug test results? 

Probably because the internet returns promising tactics for passing a drug test that, frankly, never stand a chance. When employees spend days chugging cranberry juice, eating gelatin, and taking creatine, they may be astonished to learn that their drug test results are still positive.

And that’s when the evasion game begins.

Childhood excuses like “the dog ate my homework” and “so-and-so made me do it” have upgraded to new rationalizations in the adult world of drug testing (albeit, some just as foolish). 

Some still blame others, while some concoct elaborate explanations. Here are some of the top reasons we hear for positive drug test results. 

Top 10 Reasons for Positive Drug Test Results

Your excuses for late homework may have fooled your teacher, but these lines sure won’t dupe your employer. 

1. I kissed my partner after they smoked a joint.
2. My dentist gave me something strong for a sore tooth.
3. I ate a lot of poppy seed muffins for breakfast.
4. I take all-natural supplements and some ingredients aren’t listed.
5. My mom has a valid prescription for that drug.
6. I was in a wheelchair and must have rolled over some of the drug and got it on my hands.
7. Perhaps drugs are in the lotion or shampoo that I use.
8. I don’t know how that bottle of urine got in my purse.
9. There must have been a mix-up with the specimens.
10. I attended a party over the weekend where I smoked, but I don’t do it regularly. 

What to do about drug testing excuses (and cheating)

There are many reasons to use drug testing in the workplace. And if your company has a problem with drug test cheating and excuses, consider these tactics to resolve the issues.

• Develop a comprehensive drug testing protocol. This documentation will define who gets tested, when they must do it, and for what reasons they are being tested.
• Make your drug testing policies known to applicants. Heavy users will often avoid applying for jobs in which they know they will be tested. 
• Consider oral fluid or hair drug tests. These testing types are supervised by nature, making it more difficult to cheat. 

Whether you need help with defining a protocol or collection services, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get started today!