Random drug tests help employers ensure regulatory compliance and workplace safety. As a provider of drug testing in Wichita, we know there are strict rules surrounding employee substance screening programs. Employers often need guidance to develop and implement testing policies that are effective, fair, and legal.
This post covers what employers need to know about random drug tests, including what they screen for, how they work, and how to implement them in your business.
Why Do Businesses Conduct Drug Testing?
Employers implement drug-free workplaces for a variety of reasons, including the following:
- Complying with industry regulations: While employers can implement their own policies, some high-risk occupations have industry-wide legal requirements for random drug testing. Examples include DOT-regulated workers, federal contractors, and the military.
- Reducing workplace accidents: Employees under the influence of substances may fall down on the job, fail to operate machinery safely, or have accidents on the road.
- Improving employee productivity: Employers may also choose to implement screening policies to create a more positive and productive work environment.
- Preventing substance abuse: Some employers hope to lower absentee rates, employee turnover, and liability risks by using drug tests for substance abuse deterrence.
Some businesses also conduct drug screens for prospective employees as part of a background check.
What Is Random Drug Testing?
One type of substance screening is “reasonable suspicion testing.” This is authorized when management has a specific reason to believe an employee is using drugs or alcohol. Examples may be direct observation of drug use, symptoms suggesting impairment, a pattern of erratic behavior, or an arrest for a drug-related offense.
Random drug tests are different. They use a random selection process to choose employees for screening. Typically, companies use computer-generated numbers to select a percentage of workers to test on a randomly selected day. Employers can request a random screening test at any time and without prior notice.
Many companies use urine screening, but other options include oral fluid tests (saliva), blood tests, breath tests (for alcohol), and hair follicle tests (for drugs).
What Do Random Drug Tests Detect?
Random drug tests screen for alcohol, illegal drugs, or specific controlled substances. DOT-regulated employers must test for the following:
- Marijuana
- Cocaine
- Opiates
- Phencyclidine (PCP)
- Amphetamines and methamphetamines
- Alcohol (blood concentration levels of 0.02% or higher)
Non-DOT employers may choose which substances they wish to screen for, subject to state law. For example, some states prohibit businesses from testing for marijuana.
Best Practices for Workplace Drug Testing
Drug testing programs are complicated endeavors involving legal requirements, industry regulations, and potentially high-stakes consequences. The following best practices can help you develop and implement a successful random substance screening policy.
1. Adhere to Applicable Laws
Federal, state, and local laws regarding substance screening vary. Some states allow it only if employees receive a copy of the policy in writing beforehand, some permit testing on a certain percentage of staff, and others outlaw it except in limited circumstances.
2. Follow the Right Procedures
Employers subject to DOT requirements must follow strict screening guidelines. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires employers working with a credit reporting agency to provide written notice and obtain written consent to drug test employees or job candidates.
3. Draft a Drug Testing Policy
Your policy should clearly lay out screening requirements and procedures for all employees, including the random selection method. It should also include how long workers have to complete testing, the consequences of refusing a test, and the repercussions of failing a test.
4. Notify Your Employees
Inform your staff that you will be implementing a random drug testing program. You can include it in the employee handbook or as a standalone form, but provide a copy as soon as possible. Written notice is mandatory in many states. Best practices also suggest receiving consent in writing before performing a test.
5. Choose a Reputable Provider
Experienced drug screening clinics make it easier for you to conduct your testing program. Accurate results, quick turnarounds, and training for DOT compliance are just a few of the qualities you should look for in a provider.
Need Drug Screening Services in Wichita? Contact Us Today!
At WorkSafe, we offer comprehensive substance testing for Wichita businesses. Our services include urine drug screening, breath alcohol testing, hair follicle testing, and saliva testing for both DOT and non-DOT employers. Thanks to our WorkSafe On Call services, we can bring our mobile screening unit to your location.
Call us today at 316-262-8800 for more information on random drug testing or to request a free consultation.