Drug testing is used to determine if someone is under the influence of drugs or has been using drugs in the past. Drug testing analyzes human specimens to get an adequate result and uses one of several methods. It can be classified into either workplace testing or federally mandated testing. Most drug testing is initiated by a corporation, person or by local law enforcement to determine if someone is either drug-free or under the influence.
Reasons
There are several reasons why someone may be faced with getting a drug test. Typically, it's a requirement or prerequisite to get a job or mandatory each year as part of a job. Athletes may also be periodically subject to drug testing. Some health care insurance providers may also require drug testing. People who work in transportation, the health care field, education or the federal government are most likely to have to take frequent tests.
Having a clean drug record throughout their employment assures employees that they meet the standards set forth by their employer. Probationers, parolees and those convicted of drug or alcohol related charges will likely have to partake in routine drug testing and screenings throughout their probationary period. Drug tests can also be given independently by parents to their children to assure they are drug free.
Types
There are several different types of drugs for which you can be test. These include PCP, alcohol, LSD, amphetamines, methamphetamine, cocaine, benzodiazepines, marijuana, codeine, heroin, methadone, morphine, phenobarbital, ecstasy and barbiturates.
Most drug tests that are federally mandated and enforced are regulated by the substance abuse and mental health services administration or SAMHSA. The most common types of tests are urine, blood, saliva and hair. In some cases, drug tests can be conducted via sweat tests through the aid of a patch the recipient wears. Urine tests are generally the most commonly used drug testing method but are not always the most accurate.
Time Frame
Urine tests can show usage of drugs from the prior week. Saliva tests are generally used for detecting meth and opiates within the last three to five days of use. Hair tests are used to detect drugs that were present in the system for several weeks or months prior. Blood tests are the most accurate of drug tests but are considered pricier than other methods and are not commonly used, except in hospital or medical settings.
Location
Most tests are conducted in a sterile, protected environment. There are usually designated locations or commercial medical facilities where the building and staff are equipped with tools and equipment needed to properly conduct accurate tests. Some locations also have a laboratory on premises to speed up the results of the test.
Frequency
The frequency of the drug testing depends on several different factors. Most tests are either isolated or only done once before the onset of employment. Other tests are conducted only once a year during an annual employee review. Some tests are administered at random during probation meetings or through the school system. If someone is being questioned by the police and they suspect they may be under the influence, a random drug test may be administered.
