A pre-employment drug test is an essential building block for building a reliable workforce. Today, we’ll be examining just how pre-employment testing does that and what makes it essential. Let’s dive in!

Benefits of Pre-Employment Drug Testing

Pre-employment drug testing makes sure potential employees don’t have substance abuse issues that could impact job performance. Here are some of the benefits pre-employment testing brings to creating a safer, more reliable workplace culture.

Reduced Employee Healthcare Costs

Substance abuse disorder can be costly to treat, just like any health condition. Employees who are drug-free going into employment will be less likely to develop a habit later on. They’ll also save on treating other symptoms and conditions worsened by drug abuse, like heart or nervous system issues.

Improvements in Employee Morale, Productivity, and Performance

Employees can tell if a workplace has lax morale or productivity, and their performance can reflect accordingly. Drug tests promote a culture of improved employee morale, boosting overall productivity and performance.

Decreased Absenteeism, Accidents, Downtime, Turnover, and Theft

Substance abuse disorder does not cause any of these kinds of problems to happen on the job site. However, removing drugs from the workplace is an easy way to remove one of their most common causes. More sober workers on-site means fewer accidents and more focus on the task at hand.

Compliance with State and Federal Regulations

Pre-employment drug testing isn’t just a good idea—it’s a part of state and federal law. Keeping compliant with these regulations also reduces liability in the event of a drug-related employee problem. So, be right with the law by screening and caring for your employees and your workplace.

Identify and Refer Potential Employees

If an applicant has a substance abuse problem, they may require a “moment of clarity” to see addiction’s problems and consequences. Failing a drug screening is really an opportunity to see someone struggling with an unseen problem and offer help. This can lead to them getting referred to substance abuse treatment programs and treating their condition.

Providing a Safe Workplace

Everyone deserves a safe place to work, and your workplace is no different. Pre-employment screening reduces drug-related accidents to the absolute minimum and creates a safer workplace.

5 Panel Drug Test: Your Questions Answered

The most commonly requested type of pre-employment screening is the 5 panel drug test. So, here are some of the most commonly asked questions about 5 panel tests!

What substances does a five panel drug test test for?

Most commonly, 5 panel drug tests test for amphetamines, phencyclidine (PCP), cocaine, opiates, and marijuana/THC. In states where marijuana has been legalized, a different substance can be substituted, or a similar four-panel test is run.

How is a 5-panel drug test administered?

Most five-panel drug tests are urinalysis (analysis from urine samples,) but some screenings can alternatively use hair or blood. There are benefits and drawbacks to each.

How far back does a drug test detect usage?

This can vary depending on the substances detected and the samples taken. With urine samples, this can vary from 48 hours for amphetamine users, to up to 28 days for regular marijuana use.

Does a 5-panel drug test screen for alcohol?

Generally not. Some labs offer alcohol screening in addition to or in combination with 5-panel tests.

When are the five-panel drug test results ready?

Usually testing turnaround takes a few (3-5 or so) business days.

What kinds of results can you get?

There are three potential results: positive, negative, and inconclusive. An inconclusive result simply means a result wasn’t found, whether through testing error or a diluted or contaminated sample. Inconclusive tests are neither proof of a positive or negative result and require retesting for confirmation.

Schedule a Five Panel Drug Test with Soteria Today.

If you’re ready to start building a more reliable workforce and workplace, Soteria can help. They’ve been helping employers since 2001 to build exactly these kinds of workplaces. If you’re looking to update your screening or find a new testing partner, Soteria’s friendly and knowledgeable experts are here. Contact one today to find out more or to get started!