Rx for Employability

Pre-Employment Drug Test

Drug test is a technical analysis aimed at detecting certain drugs or their metabolites in a biological sample (urine, blood, saliva). The test is conducted to detect the use of illegal drugs, such as marijuana, cocaine, heroin, etc. In a similar way, a test for doping (doping test) is carried out in athletes.

Types of tests and detectable substances

A set of immunochromatographic tests of urine in the form of test strips for groups of substances is widely used, for example, multi-test for 3 or 5 types (opiates, marijuana, amphetamine, methamphetamine, cocaine), or a set of tests for ten classes of substances (the so-called “10-panel urine screen “):

  • Amphetamines, including methamphetamine;
  • Barbiturates;
  • Benzodiazepines;
  • Buprenorphine;
  • Cannabinoids (tetrahydrocannabinol);
  • Cocaine;
  • Methadone;
  • Methaqualone;
  • Opiates (codeine, morphine, heroin, oxycodone, hydrocodone, etc.);
  • Phencyclidine;
  • Propoxyphene (propoxyphene, dextropropoxyphene);
  • Synthetic cannabinoids (K2, spice);
  • Tricyclic antidepressants

Analysis of substances contained in the body

The analysis of substances contained in the body is perhaps the most controversial method of detection. The alcohol content is usually determined by taking a breath test (using a special instrument) or a blood test. The most common method for determining the content of narcotic substances in the body is urine analysis.

Employers argue that such an analysis is beneficial in the following areas:

  • strengthening security;
  • preventing accountability for accidents;
  • identifying contraindications to professional fitness;
  • increasing labor productivity;
  • reducing absenteeism and delays;
  • controlling medical costs;
  • strengthening public confidence that the company’s products and services are produced and delivered safely and properly;
  • preventing damage to the image of the employer;
  • identification and rehabilitation of workers;
  • prevention of thefts;
  • fight against illegal or anti-social behavior workers.

Category: General Issues

Tags: Business, drugs