Drug screening for employment has become more and more common in many diverse areas and job sectors. Drug use can affect an employee’s judgment and can even put the entire workplace in danger. If you’ve decided to implement a screening drug test policy, you’ll want to learn more about the process before you get started. This can help you ensure that you stay compliant with the laws surrounding drug testing.
What happens in a drug screening?
There are many different types of drug screening procedures that you may wish to pursue when you’re implementing a testing policy. Conventional drug testing methods include blood tests, urinalysis, saliva tests and breath alcohol tests. Some of these methods are instant, which can help speed up the testing process. These screening methods have varying levels of effectiveness, and may report false positives. This is why many employers who implement drug testing use a “split sample” method, where two samples are taken at the same time and tested separately, to ensure accuracy.
What is pre-employment drug screening?
Screening job candidates for drug use prior to employment is a common practice. Not only does this ensure that you’re hiring drug-free employees, it can also help your workplace stay drug-free. Some companies have policies in place that allow them to rescind a conditional job offer if the candidate tests positive for drugs. Depending on your state’s laws as well as the job position, you may need to implement a specific policy.
How can I develop a drug screening employment process?
Some employers may wish to continue testing employees at random to ensure that the workplace stays drug free. However, it’s important to have processes and policies in place before beginning any drug testing program. You should ensure that information about the process is included in your employee handbook, and that your drug testing policies are posted. Even if it’s not required by law in your state, it’s good practice to ensure that your employees are familiar with your procedures.
Staying compliant with drug testing laws in your state
Of course, every state has its own laws regarding drug testing. For example, while most states do allow pre-employment drug screening, some states require that you may only test employees who have been conditionally offered a job. It is to your benefit to learn more about drug testing laws and policies in your state.
Benefits of a screening drug test
If you’ve decided to pursue drug screening in your workplace, it may be beneficial to all employees. Drug users may put other employees at risk, particularly in certain industries. It can benefit your company to stay drug-free – and part of that process may be putting a drug screening policy in place. Contact us to discuss drug screening services!