Employee Screening Guide

Employee Screening Guide – Everything you need to know about employee screening.

The landscape of employee drug testing is becoming increasingly complex, with varied regulations and technologies shaping the field. For employers, HR professionals, and safety managers, understanding the nuances of drug screening is critical to maintaining a safe and compliant workplace. This comprehensive guide aims to demystify the process, helping you make informed decisions about employee screening.

Let Our 30 years of Experience and Technology Be Your Peace of Mind

Need assistance with your DOT Screening Program or need to order a drug test, physical or other service today?  We have 20,000 electronically enabled collection sites near your workplace or your employee/applicant’s home.  This means you can order and test today.  Contact our knowledgeable support staff at 844-573-8378 or [email protected] or press on link below to order now:  Order Here

What our Customers Say about Workplace Screening Intelligence:

Carlie M. gave us a 5 Star Google Review and said, Brenda is amazing! Always so helpful and knowledgeable. Switching from our old provider to WSI has made my job SO much easier!!

Employee Drug Testing

Employee drug testing is a tool employed by organizations to ensure a drug-free work environment. It can prevent accidents, increase productivity, and reduce liability. Typical situations that may necessitate drug testing include pre-employment screening, reasonable suspicion, post-accident investigation, and return-to-duty processes.

Prevent Accidents, Increase Productivity and Reduce Liability

Implementing drug testing in the workplace is not merely a precautionary measure; it is a strategic initiative with tangible benefits. First and foremost, drug testing acts as a deterrent against substance use, which notably reduces the likelihood of accidents. When employees are under the influence, their judgment, coordination, and ability to react to situations are impaired, increasing the risk of hazardous incidents. Consequently, maintaining a drug-free environment promotes the safety and well-being of all employees.

Furthermore, drug testing can lead to increased productivity. Employees who are sober and clear-headed are more likely to perform their duties efficiently and with better focus, contributing to the overall output and success of the company. This efficiency boost is directly correlated with enhanced job performance and a more competitive position in the market.

Lastly, conducting routine or random drug tests demonstrates a commitment to safety that can significantly reduce a company’s liability. By ensuring that all personnel are compliant with drug-free policies, businesses protect themselves against potential legal action that could arise from drug-related accidents. A solid drug testing program showcases a company’s responsibility and can mitigate costly legal and medical expenditures resulting from substance abuse. Overall, it encourages a healthy, productive, and legally compliant workplace.

Regulated Drug Screen vs. Non Regulated Drug Screen

Drug testing can be divided into two main categories: regulated and non-regulated. Regulated drug screens are those required by specific governmental agencies like the Department of Transportation (DOT), subject to stringent rules and procedures. Non regulated drug screens, on the other hand, are not governed by these strict standards and can be more flexible in their implementation. Employers can tailor them to suit their organizational policy.

5 Panel Urine Screen

A 5 panel urine screen is one of the most common forms of drug tests. It typically checks for the presence of five substances:

1. Cocaine
2. Amphetamines/Methamphetamines
3. Opiates
4. THC (cannabis)
5. Phencyclidine (PCP)

This test is widely used due to its accuracy, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.

10 Panel Urine Screen

Drugs tested for in the  10 panel urine screen goes a step further by testing for the five substances listed above, as well as:

6. Barbiturates
7. Benzodiazepines
8. Methadone
9. Propoxyphene
10. Methaqualone –  Quaaludes

This broader screening is suitable for workplaces that require a more rigorous testing program.

Instant Test When You Need It Now

For situations requiring immediate results, instant drug tests are available. These can be either the instant drug test 5 panel or instant drug test 10 panel kits. They provide rapid results, allowing for swift decision-making. While instant tests offer the convenience of on-the-spot results, confirmatory laboratory testing is still recommended for non-negative outcomes.

Alternate Technologies – Hair Follicle Testing and Oral Fluid Drug Testing

In addition to urine screens, employers can employ alternative methods like hair follicle testing and oral fluid drug testing. Hair tests can detect drug use over a longer period, while oral fluid tests are hard to adulterate and easier to administer. The DOT oral fluid drug test is a new addition that has seen regulatory approval, offering an alternative to traditional urine tests.  However, a few items need to be addressed before DOT Oral Fluid Testing is available:

1. FDA must approve split specimen oral fluid collection device
2. Two labs must be inspected and certified for SAMHSA Oral Fluid certification.  Both labs must utilize the same device.
3. DOT Collectors have to be trained and perform mock collections in order to be able to collect DOT Saliva specimens.

DOT 5 Panel

The DOT has its specific 5 panel test, which is mandated for safety-sensitive employees. It tests for the same substances as the standard 5 panel urine screen but adheres to stricter collection and testing procedures to comply with DOT regulations.

Laboratory Certification

When it comes to laboratory tests, using a certified lab such as Quest Diagnostics Drug Test, LabCorp Drug Test, or Clinical Reference Lab Drug Test ensures that the facility meets federal standards and provides accurate, reliable results. These certifications are integral to the credibility of the testing process.  Workplace Screening Intelligence only utilizes SAMHSA certified labs for testing.

Medical Review Officer (MRO)

A Medical Review Officer (MRO) is a crucial element in the drug testing process. An MRO is a licensed physician responsible for reviewing, verifying, and interpreting drug test results. They provide quality assurance and help maintain the integrity of the testing program.

FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse

The FMCSA Clearinghouse is a central database that contains information on violations of drug and alcohol testing by commercial drivers. The FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse is a critical tool for employers in the trucking industry to verify a driver’s drug and alcohol testing record during pre-employment screening and certain annual checks.  Additionally, an employer needs to also perform the following to be compliant with the Clearinghouse FMCSA:

Create an addendum for the The FMCSA Clearinghouse to place with DOT drug and alcohol testing policy.

Educate employees and supervisors on rights and responsibilities.

Report Positive alcohols to the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse.

Report collection site refusals to the FMCSA Clearinghouse.

Report known drug and alcohol use to the FMCSA Clearinghouse.

Need HELP with the Clearinghouse?  Fmcsa Chs

Additional Services – Titer Testing, QuantiFERON Gold TB

Beyond drug testing, there are additional health screening services that may be of interest to employers, including titer testing to verify immunity status and the QuantiFERON Gold TB test for tuberculosis. Like drug testing, these services can be critical components of a comprehensive employee health and safety program. Need to order a titer test today?  Contact our knowledgeable support staff at 844-573-8378 or [email protected]

Conclusion

Staying informed is key to implementing an effective and legal drug testing program that serves your organization’s needs. Whether opting for a non-DOT drug test or in search of a DOT drug test near me, this guide is designed to serve as your starting point. Remember, for both drug screening near me or any type of non-DOT drug screen, consider the type of panel, the method of testing, and the certifications of the laboratories and personnel involved. Always comply with state and federal laws, ensuring that your program is fair, consistent, and respects the privacy and rights of employees.

Equip your organization with the knowledge to screen effectively, making your workplace safer and inherently more productive. With options like the 5 panel urine screen, drugs tested for in a 10 panel urine screen, and technologies extending to hair follicle and oral fluid drug tests, you have a robust suite of tools at your disposal to maintain a high standard of workplace safety and compliance.

Let Our 30 years of Experience and Technology Be Your Peace of Mind

Need assistance with your DOT Screening Program or need to order a drug test, physical or other service today?  We have 20,000 electronically enabled collection sites near your workplace or your employee/applicant’s home.  This means you can order and test today.  Contact our knowledgeable support staff at 844-573-8378 or [email protected] or press on link below to order now:  Order Here

What our Customers Say about Workplace Screening Intelligence:

Carlie M. gave us a 5 Star Google Review and said, Brenda is amazing! Always so helpful and knowledgeable. Switching from our old provider to WSI has made my job SO much easier!!