Drug testing can be integral in creating a safer and more productive drug-free work environment. Many companies use drug testing as a prevention and deterrent method often part of a comprehensive program for employee health and wellness. In many industries, such as the medical field or those that deal with heavy equipment, a drug-free work environment is crucial for complying with safety regulations.
Learn more about the different types of tests, how soon drugs can be detected and how to implement a program for your company.
Determine the Right Test for Your Needs
There are several types of drug tests your company might take advantage of, each targeting different substances with various detection windows. Often, a drug test can go as far back as 30 days, though some may go farther depending on the test, the type of drug, frequency of use and other factors.
Here’s a breakdown of the standard drug testing methods and what they can be used for:
- Urine: These employee drug tests are often used for detecting drugs like marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, opioids and benzodiazepines. A urine drug test can go back one to seven days or longer, depending on the drug and frequency of use. THC detection times in urine can last 30 days or more in heavy users, though individual factors can influence these times.
- Saliva: A saliva test will often focus on detecting substances like cocaine, opioids, marijuana and some prescription drugs, detecting use within hours to a few days.
- Hair: Hair follicle tests can detect a broader range of substances over a more extended period. You might use these tests to identify long-term drug use, as they can detect drug use over the past 90 days or even longer, depending on the hair length.
- Blood: Blood tests can be highly accurate in detecting recent drug use. They’ll identify a broader range of substances, detecting use within hours to a few days.
- Breath: A breathalyzer test focuses specifically on alcohol levels to determine if the person is currently intoxicated. It will assess immediate impairment, usually within a few hours.
Determining the proper test for your company will depend on your goals, industry requirements, budget and desired detection window. It’s best to consult with health care professionals and lab experts to help you choose the right one.
What Is the Window of Detection for Common Drug Types?
Some drugs can be detected within a few hours to several weeks, depending on the type, frequency of use and testing method:
- Cannabis (THC): THC metabolites can be found in urine and hair for one to 90 days, depending on the frequency and amount the person uses. It can be detected in blood or saliva for a shorter period, usually up to 12 hours for blood and 72 for saliva.
- Alcohol: A breathalyzer can detect alcohol for several hours after a person drinks, based on their metabolism and the amount consumed. Blood tests can detect alcohol up to 12 hours after, while urine tests can detect it three to five days after alcohol intake.
- Cocaine: A urine test can detect cocaine in four days or less after use, although occasional users can have a shorter window. Blood tests can detect cocaine for up to two days.
- Amphetamines: Urine tests can identify amphetamines for up to four days, while blood tests might detect these drugs for up to 48 hours.
- Opioids: Detection for opioids like heroin or oxycodone can vary depending on the drug and individual factors. Short-acting opioids might be identified in urine for up to three days, while longer-acting opioids are often detectable for a similar time.
Drugs can stay in your system for varying times, ranging from a few hours to several weeks, depending on the type of drug and the test used. It’s crucial to note that these detention windows can vary depending on individual factors like hydration, metabolism and the drug test you use and its sensitivity.
How to Implement a Drug Testing Program for Your Company
When it comes to implementing a drug testing program in your company, you might need help figuring out where to start. You’ll want to consider several factors, from determining the correct test to selecting the frequency and how you’ll roll out your program. Here are a few tips:
- Get legal advice: Be sure to consult with legal advisors before implementing your drug testing policy. All test policies are subject to state and federal laws, so you’ll want to ensure yours complies with applicable laws and regulations.
- Choose a testing provider: As a business owner, consider partnering with a reputable drug testing provider who can help with testing logistics like collecting samples and delivering compliant results.
- Select your testing method: Choose between standard drug tests like blood, urine, saliva or hair. Choose the type that aligns with your company’s needs and budget. You might pair instant screening methods with thorough lab-based drug testing for more accurate results.
- Communicate your policy: Ensure all employees understand your drug testing policy and procedures, the types of drugs that will be tested and how frequently you’ll conduct testing. Provide copies of the policy and have everyone sign the acknowledgment form.
- Train supervisors and conduct testing: Ensure all supervisors in your workplace understand the signs of drug use and how to handle drug-related incidents. Implement your drug testing policy by conducting tests on employees per your specific procedures.
- Respond to positive results: Develop a plan for employees who receive positive test results, such as disciplinary actions or resources for those who need help with addiction.
- Monitor and assess: Lastly, ensure that you regularly review and evaluate your program to ensure it meets your company’s goals.
Following these steps can ensure that you safely and effectively implement the drug testing program for your company’s needs and promote better health and wellness in your work environment.
Choose Test Smartly Labs as Your Company’s Drug Testing Partner
Implementing a drug testing program in your company can promote a safer environment for all employees. An effective policy can also help reduce accidents and lower employee liability. At Test Smartly Labs, we will deliver compliant, timely and accurate test results to promote the health and well-being of your employees.
Choose from mobile or convenient onsite drug testing, where we’ll travel to your business to conduct testing. You might also choose a prepay option to save money and allow your employees to receive independent testing at any of our five locations.
Contact us today to implement a drug testing program for your workplace.