When to Implement a Pre Employment Drug Test

Obviously, the best time to implement a pre employment drug test is before starting employment. However, that answer overly simplifies the complexities of the pre employment drug test process. Today

Obviously, the best time to implement a pre employment drug test is before starting employment. However, that answer overly simplifies the complexities of the pre employment drug test process. Today we’ll be answering not just when the test is held, but why to take it and what it looks for.

Why Schedule a Pre Employment Drug Test?

In many cases, an employer will schedule a pre employment drug test after making a conditional offer of employment. Meaning, pre employment testing allows employers to make the most informed hiring decisions possible.

This is especially important in safety-sensitive work environments, where sober precision is vital. A potential employee who’s regularly using drugs before hiring would be more likely to use them after hiring.

Scheduling this testing before employment is the more cost-effective, safe, and efficient way to limit workplace substance use.

What do pre employment drug test look for?

Pre employment drug tests look for substances in the body that are a byproduct of recent drug use. What exactly is looked for depends on the substance consumed and the bodily material being tested on.

The most common form of pre employment testing is a urine test. Urine samples can show traces of drug use even after their effects have worn off. The substances typically screened for include marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines/methamphetamines, PCP, or opioids, with options for additional substances. Urinalysis is the only method approved for federally mandated testing, so it’s a common choice for regulated and non-regulated employees.

Hair testing has an even longer window of detection, spanning up to 90 days for many substances. It only detects past use, however, not current use, and cannot detect alcohol. A sample of 100 strands is collected from an unnoticeable area of the head for testing close to the scalp. It can detect methamphetamines, cocaine, marijuana, opioids, PCP, and other substances.

Lastly, saliva and oral fluids testing is fully observed by a specialist, which makes it an especially difficult sample to alter. It also can be collected on-site, reducing costs and time. This sample is collected from a swab on the inside of the mouth and can detect recent usage. For most drugs, however, the window of detection is relatively small, lasting about one to three days depending.

The Benefits of Pre Employment Drug Testings

Decreased Absenteeism

Drug abuse is a frequent cause of absenteeism, leading to an array of operating problems. So, pre employment screenings should limit the possibility of frequent absenteeism like this.

Fewer Accidents

Being actively drunk or high on the worksite is an easy way for an accident to happen. However, even those not under the active effects of substances could be more accident-prone. Withdrawals can lead to tremors or a lack of mental focus and similarly contribute to more workplace accidents. Therefore, a more drug-free workplace is a workplace where fewer accidents are likely to occur.

Improved Productivity

Drug abuse, even off-site, can negatively influence productivity. It can inhibit motivation and decision-making, as well as lead to physical symptoms that could all impact productivity. Someone not actively abusing drugs would generally be more productive in the workplace than someone who isn’t.

Reduced Turnover

If an employee is found to have a drug problem, there’s naturally going to be the matter of replacing them. This turnover can be a drawn-out and time-consuming process; therefore, pre employment drug screenings reduce the necessity of it happening.

Added Protection for the Company

Pragmatically speaking, the company has a responsibility to look after its employees. This includes everybody, not just those directly influenced or impacted by the substance in question. So, this screening allows the company to show it’s trying to promote a safe work environment and check for potential problems.

Schedule Your Pre Employment Drug Test with Soteria

Implementing a pre employment drug test should be the next step before making serious hiring decisions. By partnering with a qualified screening service and laboratory, you can make sure your employees are in capable hands.

Soteria has been working with companies since 2001 to create safer and more drug-free work environments. They can answer any questions, including when employee drug test results are viewable. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Marijuana State Laws

To speed up your testing process, kindly purchase your necessary drug test via before your facility visit.
To speed up your testing process, kindly purchase your necessary drug test via before your facility visit.