Every workplace should be safe for its employees and customers. For that to be achieved, certain procedures need to take place. In particular, mandatory drug tests should be enforced in the workplace. By doing so, you can better protect the health of your employees and customers. 

However, drug tests often have a negative connotation. Many find them to be invasive of their privacy. In actuality, it is an important safety measure that all companies should execute. So, let’s discuss different drug test implementation strategies to try in 2024.

Everything You Need to Know About Drug Tests

First, let’s explain the significance of drug tests. They are meaningful safety measures that help keep employees and customers safe. Moreover, they reduce liability for both businesses and employees. Ideally, drug tests should be completed before hiring and sporadically during employment. Depending on the test, the results should not take long to receive.

What Substances Are Included in Drug Tests?

There are various substances employers are testing for, which are split into different categories. 

1. Amphetamines, such as meth and ecstasy
2. Common drugs like marijuana and THC
3. Opiates such as morphine and heroin
4. Cocaine and PCP

Often, these drug tests are conducted through urine or blood analysis, which is proven to be the most effective. Furthermore, e results will appear within a few days, allowing employers to make hiring decisions quicker.

Employer Strategies

As an employer, there are strategies you can implement. For example, be sure to follow suggestions made by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Drug-Free Workplace Advisor. This will help you create and administer drug and substance abuse policies. Also, consider contacting and working with screening professionals. They can answer any questions and offer suggestions for best practices. 

Lastly, you should emphasize the importance of employee wellbeing. Individuals will be happy to comply if they know their health is prioritized by their employer and company.

How to Pass a Drug Test

Understandably, the best way to pass a drug test is to avoid drug use. Ultimately, abusing drugs and alcohol doesn’t offer any positive outcomes. In fact, it can be very harmful to your physical and mental health. 

In most scenarios, any form of drug use may prevent you from getting hired. Now, there is a common dilemma: marijuana. Twenty-four states have legalized the recreational use of cannabis. 

However, private companies have the right to check for marijuana use and are allowed to maintain a drug-free workplace. Moreover, according to the federal government, cannabis is still considered an illegal substance. So, it will be checked for in any government or federal position. 

Lastly, it’s important to state that tampering with drug tests can result in severe consequences, such as suspensions or firing. The most common example of drug test tampering is diluting urine samples. However, this will not work. Laboratory equipment can detect this and will automatically fail you. In addition, you should avoid using products that aim to mask or spike drug tests. Adulterants are illegal in several states and can result in fines or jail time.

Learn More with Soteria Screening

Since 2001, Soteria has been working with businesses to help keep their workplaces safe. We offer various services that can minimize health risks and reduce liability for companies and employees. A few services we provide include background checks, DOT drug tests, and non-DOT drug tests. 

Moreover, we only use modern and advanced laboratory equipment. This will ensure that results are effective and arrive efficiently. For more information, please contact us at 202-679-6670. We look forward to hearing from you.