Common Questions About Drug and Alcohol Testing
With the rampant use of illicit drugs inside and outside the workplace, drug testing should be very common for employers. However, many employers don’t know enough about drug testing to make it a standard practice within their company. For employers, it can be confusing what kind of drug test to require their employees to take. And it can also be uncomfortable handling suspicious drug use at work.
We are here to help you understand drug testing better, and we have answered some common questions below.
Can I drug test an employee if we don’t have a drug testing policy in place?
It’s essential to have a drug-free workplace policy in place before requiring drug testing for employees. Having a drug-free workplace policy in place will help provide support to both you as an employer and your employees if someone should test positive. A drug-free policy will outline the basics of testing and the consequences of any drug or alcohol violations.
How should I handle it if I think one of my employees is under the influence of drugs or alcohol?
If you have properly identified drug or alcohol impairment, try to get another witness to support your observations. The first step is to take the employee to a quiet place, such as a conference room. Follow your company’s drug-free policy, as well as protocols on how management and HR are required to handle the situation.
What does a drug test look for?
Drug testing screens for amphetamines (and methamphetamines), cocaine, marijuana, phencyclidine (PCP), and opiates. Depending on what is stated in your company’s drug-free policy, you can determine the panels that you choose to test based on what you observe in your employee.
What happens if an employee currently takes medication that might interfere with drug test results?
A Medical Review Officer (MRO) reviews and verifies all drug test results. If an employee tests positive, the MRO will speak with the employee to discuss other factors, such as prescription medication, that may have affected the results. If the medicine is one that can impact the test results, the MRO will ask for prescription validation and possibly even pharmacy information. If everything is confirmed, the test results will be changed to negative.
What’s DOT drug testing?
DOT drug testing is the drug and alcohol testing required by the Department of Transportation. The testing is necessary for people who have a safety-sensitive job, such as truck drivers, and it is conducted to protect the public.
DATCO Services is Here for You!
We provide drug and alcohol compliance for employers and also parents. If you need drug and alcohol compliance support for your company, contact DATCO at 800-95-DATCO (32826) to discuss your specific company’s or family’s needs.
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