A lot of companies require people to take a pre employment drug test. These include everything from government jobs to healthcare to automotive to manufacturing. Ultimately, there are various reasons that businesses require a drug test, whether that be working with medicines or operating heavy machinery. Whatever the motivation for the test, many potential employees have just one question: will I be able to see my drug test results?

Find answers to this question and more below.

What does a pre-employment drug test scan for?

There are two types of drug tests that are commonly used for employees. These are a five panel drug test and a ten panel drug test. A five panel test looks for the following substances:

• Marijuana
• Cocaine
• PCP
• Opiates like codeine, morphine, and heroin
• Amphetamines and methamphetamine
• MDMA (ecstasy)

Typically, this is the drug test most employers will use. Conversely, a ten panel test is less common. Government agencies and other high level positions may require a ten panel test. Usually, this drug screening tests for the same substances as the five panel test as well as:

• Narcotic prescription drugs
• Benzodiazepines
• Barbiturates
• Methaqualone
• Propoxyphene

Moreover, employers can request tests to check for alcohol. You can also ask your potential future employer if they require drug tests and what they test for.

What type of drug test do most employers use?

The most common drug test is a urine test, where a urine sample is collected and tested for substances. Employers may also use a salvia, blood, or hair test. The determining factor is often how long the drug test can detect substances after use. For example, marijuana can usually only be detected in urine up to two to seven days after a single use, but it can be found in hair up to 90 days after use.

How long does it take to get drug test results?

Workplace drug tests are usually turned around quickly, within a few days. If you test negative for any drugs, that is usually determined within 24 hours. Any non-negative tests must be looked at further to determine what is causing the test to turn out the way it is.

Who is told the pre employment drug test results?

If your test comes back negative, the lab will inform your employer. If it is non-negative, you will probably be contacted by the drug screening company for questioning. Be sure to mention any medications you are taking during this process. Any prescription medications will need to have the proper paperwork along with them for proof. Whether you are able to explain why your test came back positive or not, your potential employer will be contacted.

Can my drug test results be incorrect?

It is very unlikely that you will get a false positive on your pre employment drug test. The most common reason this would occur is if you take any type of medication. This is easy enough to explain, so you shouldn’t worry about it. Some people drink a lot of water before their urine test in order to dilute the sample. This is a bad idea because it may lead to an inconclusive result. You would then need to be tested again, but some companies won’t bother doing a second test for people that don’t even work for them yet.

Where can I order a drug test?

Are you a business looking for a pre-employment drug test supplier? Soteria Screening has you covered. They offer many types of drug tests, including urine, hair, and breath alcohol tests. Call (202) 679-6670 to order or for more information.