DRUG TESTING

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 Types of Non-DOT drug tests 

Pre-Employment Tests: Many companies now require all new hires to pass a drug test before starting work. It gives you the chance to keep habitual users out of your workforce. If an applicant is unable to stop using long enough to pass a test, you do not want them on your payroll.

Random Testing: These tests may be done monthly, quarterly, or even annually, depending on the company’s needs. Names are generated randomly by a computer program. This type of testing deters employee drug use since they don’t know when they’ll be tested.

Post-Accident Tests: These tests are usually done after accidents that cause a fatality or injury, or could lead to a workers’ compensation claim. It is important for the employer to know if the person responsible for the accident was under the influence. It is essential to spell out the timing for these tests in your drug testing policy so the tests can be done before any drugs can clear the employee’s system. Failing to have a solid protocol could cause you to miss a positive test result.

Reasonable Suspicion Testing: If you’re going to utilize this type of test, you need to have supervisors who are trained to spot suspicious behaviors. They’re only conducted if a company official can show reason to believe an employee might be under the influence.

Return-to-Duty Tests: If you allow an employee to return to work after having a positive drug test result, it’s a good idea to test them once more to make sure they’re no longer using. This test might also be appropriate when an employee returns to work after an accident to be sure they aren’t impaired by prescription painkillers.

Follow-Up Tests: If an employee is allowed to return to work after passing a Return to Duty drug test, you might consider follow-up testing over the next year to be sure he or she doesn’t start using again. This requires several random screens for the employee.