Whether you are applying for a job or returning to work after being off duty, pre-employment drug testing is an essential part of the hiring process. But what is the primary purpose of these tests?
Urinalysis
During a urinalysis, a urine sample is analyzed to check for several things. These include bacteria, blood, red blood cells, crystals, and parasites. The results are used to diagnose various diseases and disorders.
Urine is also used to determine the presence of certain substances, such as drugs. It can also indicate whether you have an infection.
Urinalysis can be performed at a medical clinic or home. A small sample (usually 30-60 mL) is collected and sent to the lab for analysis. The results are typically available within minutes.
Urinalysis can also be used to detect certain diseases, such as kidney stones. A urine test can also be used to determine whether someone has diabetes. It can also be used to detect the presence of blood in the urine, which can be a sign of blood clots or an infection. It can also be used to screen for high blood pressure.
Urinalysis tests are ordered by family practitioners, internists, obstetricians, and nephrologists. The test can check for signs of kidney disease, diabetes, and urinary tract infection.
Hair analysis
Hair analysis is one of the most convenient and less invasive among the different methods for detecting drugs in the body. It can be used for pre-employment testing and addiction monitoring. Aside from detecting opiates and amphetamines, hair analysis also offers a 90-day detection window for repetitive drug use patterns.
Hair analysis is based on the principle that metabolites of drugs are deposited in the hair follicle. This happens through a variety of mechanisms, including blood circulation. The follicle is then tested using a specific chemical.
Hair samples are analyzed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Recent advances in analytical methods have allowed more compounds to be detected in a single run.
In addition to detecting opiates and amphetamines, the test can also see cocaine, ecstasy, heroin, and PCP. Moreover, the test can be used to detect the metabolites of methamphetamines.
The sensitivity of hair testing is considerably higher than other methods. It is a cost-effective alternative to 5-panel urine lab-based testing.
Hair analysis provides information about the period of drug use and consumption intensity. It also offers a more detailed history of drug use.
Reasonable suspicion
Having a comprehensive drug testing policy is essential to reduce accidents and absenteeism. It also can increase productivity and reduce turnover.
Reasonable suspicion in pre-employment drug testing is a valuable tool to help identify employees who may be impaired by drugs or alcohol. It also helps to deter drug and alcohol abuse, which can reduce productivity and costs. In addition, it can help to protect against discrimination complaints.
The best way to ensure that your drug testing program is successful is to ensure that your management is well-versed in the policy. They will need to document their observations of employees who may be impaired and ensure that the test is performed as quickly as possible.
The standard impairment observation worksheet has checklists for identifying different types of observations. Using the proper documentation can also help make a better lawsuit defense.
There are many laws and regulations regarding workplace drug and alcohol counseling, outreach programs, and testing. Most states have standards for a drug-free workplace. In addition, many states require employers to have reasonable suspicion training for their managers and supervisors.
Return-to-duty
DOT return-to-duty testing is a drug test administered to employees who violate the company’s drug policy. Employees who fail the test must undergo treatment and education programs before returning to work.
DOT return-to-duty testing is required under 49 CFR Part 40. It is used as a deterrent to drug use. In 2018, 2.4 million DOT drug tests were performed. In that year, the positivity rate was 5.5%. The positivity rate has increased in recent years. This is partly due to the inclusion of drugs on the DOT drug testing panel.
In addition to drug tests, employees who fail to complete the required treatment programs are also subject to follow-up drug tests. The employee must complete six follow-up tests during the first twelve months after the employee returns to work. This can be extended for up to five years.
Before returning to work, an employee must be evaluated by a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). This person will determine if the employee can resume work or if additional testing is needed. The SAP also will create a treatment plan.
Confidentiality
Whether your company is using drug testing for hiring purposes, employee management, or other reasons, it is essential to keep your test results confidential. While it may be tempting to make public your tests’ results, it violates employee privacy and may also be defamatory. Creating a drug testing policy that complies with federal and state laws is essential in protecting employee privacy.
The Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 requires drug-free workplaces for federal contractors, grantees, and contractors who receive federal grants. Private employers, however, do not have to follow federal law. Most private companies do not share drug test results with third parties. Nonetheless, employers should be sure that their drug testing policy is in line with HIPAA regulations.
The Department of Labor has developed a tool to help determine whether your organization complies with the Drug-Free Workplace Act. If you are unsure, let’s contact an employment law attorney.
The most common specimen used for drug testing is saliva. Other examples include hair and sweat. It is important to remember that drug test results should be kept in a confidential medical file. If an employer negligently releases test results, it may subject them to legal action. It may also cause intentional infliction of emotional distress or invasion of privacy.
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