3 IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT PRE-EMPLOYMENT DRUG SCREENING

For many starting a new job is an exciting milestone. However, you may be asked to undergo pre-employment drug testing before you begin your job. If you’re undergoing drug testing, here are three things you should know before scheduling your appointment.

What Type of Drug Test is Used for Pre-Employment?

The types of drug tests used for pre-employment screening can vary, but the most common ones are urine, drug tests, hair drug tests, and saliva drug tests. Hair tests are also commonly used as they can detect drug use up to 90 days before testing. Saliva tests are less commonly used but can provide immediate results and detect recent drug use. Employers may choose to use one or a combination of these tests depending on their specific needs and company policies. Urine tests offer an indication of drug use in the past few days to weeks.

What is the Most Common Drug Test for Employment?

The most common drug test used for employment screenings is the urine drug test. This type of drug test is preferred by many employers including DOT testing as well as workers' comp testing and more. It is relatively inexpensive, easy to administer, and can typically return results within a few days. Urine drug tests however are not foolproof, and false positives can occur due to various factors including prescribed medications.

What Do Employers Test for in Drug Screens?

Common screening practices detect the presence of THC, opiates, methamphetamines, cocaine, and phencyclidine. This covers a wide range of recreational drugs including cannabinoids, marijuana, heroin, codeine, morphine, and angel dust. The concept of drug test screenings is to alert employers if prospective staff members engage in illicit drug use or abuse prescription medication. Urine, blood, saliva, and urine are the most common specimen types used for accurate drug testing. Illegal substances can be detected for up to 10 days in urine, but hair specimens for drug screening could detect drug or alcohol usage for up to three months.

Complete Your Drug Test With Lanier

If your future employer is asking for a drug screening, you can confirm that you’re fit for the job by visiting a local walk-in clinic. Lanier Urgent Care provides easy and efficient drug screening seven days a week. Call or visit us today to secure comprehensive pre-employment drug testing.