When it comes to drug testing, employers have a few different options to choose from. The most common choices are the 5 panel and 10 panel drug tests. But what’s the difference between the two? Let’s take a closer look.
5 panel drug tests are the most common type of drug test used by employers.
Regardless of the industry or size of an employer, panel 5 drug tests are the most popular choice for businesses looking to screen their applicants and employees. A panel 5 test tests for five common drugs of abuse, including marijuana, opioids, cocaine, amphetamines, and PCP. A panel 10 test expands on these core panel 5 drugs with an additional panel that tests for even more substances such as barbiturates and benzodiazepines. While a panel 10 provides more comprehensive testing capabilities than panel 5 does, it is less commonly used in the business world due to higher expense and fewer legal regulations requiring its use.
10 panel drug tests are less common, but may be required for certain positions.
10 panel drug tests are significantly less common than 5 panel drug tests, however, they may be required for specific job openings that include safety-sensitive and high-risk positions. 10 panel drug screens provide more comprehensive detection of a wider range of drugs due to 10 different components being tested rather than just the five found in the more typical 5 panel test. 10 panel drug screenings are usually used when employers are interested in conducting a thorough search on what potential employees have been exposed to or have used in their recent past. Ultimately 10 panel tests offer employers additional assurance with the insight it provides and can be important in making sure the right person is employed.
The main difference between the two is that 5 panel tests only look for five specific drugs, while 10 panel tests look for ten drugs.
When drug screening, employers often opt for either a 5 panel test or a 10 panel drug test. The main difference between the two is that while the 5 panel drug test looks for only five specific drugs, the 10 panel drug test has more comprehensive results and covers up to ten different substances. Whether employers choose a 5 or 15 drug test depends on their needs and policy goals when it comes to drug testing procedures. It is important for employers to have this knowledge in order to make an informed decision on which drug test best suits their individual workplace needs.
The 10 panel drug test typically includes the following drugs:
Marijuana, Cocaine, PCP, Amphetamines, Opiates (can include oxycodone and hydrocodone, oxymorphone and hydromorphone), Barbiturates, Benzodiazepines, Methadone, Methaqualone and Propoxyphene.
Need a drug test today?
WorkPlace Screening Intelligence offers many panels which can be customized specifically for you or your organization. We offer the 5 panel, 10 Panel and other panels that have many more drugs. We offer Urine screening, hair follicle screening, blood drug screening and oral fluid screening. Call our knowledgeable staff today at 844-573-8378 or [email protected]