In Richmond and throughout Virginia employers can qualify for 5% discount on workers comp premiums once they implement a comprehensive Drug Free workplace Program. The Virginia code section 65.2-306 also provides that compensation is not allowed when an injury is caused by intoxication or use of a non-prescribed controlled substance; the employer must follow SAMHSA guidelines for drug testing.
When you need fast drug and alcohol testing in Richmond for school, workplace, sports, probation, individuals or other court-ordered programs, call National Drug Screening.
What Employers Need to Think About
Your drug test provider plays a key role in either simplifying the hiring process or creating obstacles in getting the test results you need. When it comes down to making your decision on a drug test provider, you should take a step back and compare all of the facilities you are looking at. Consider the following:
- Testing Method: Confirm if urine testing is the best fit or if other methods would better suit your needs. For example, the US Department of Transportation (DOT) requires a 5 panel drug test.
- Experience of the Provider: Understand the provider’s experience as you do not want to end up with inaccurate or compromised results when you send your employees in to be tested.
- SAMHSA Certification: The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) SAMHSA defines the requirements for drug testing labs in the workplace. Make sure the lab is SAMHSA-certified to comply with federal standards.
- Full-time Medical Review Officer: A full-time MRO accurately interprets test results. They serve as the main intermediary between all parties in the drug testing process, including the donor, collector, lab, and employer.
- Result Turnaround Time: While negative test results are usually available within 24 hours, you need to know if the facility can meet your required turnaround times. Inquire if they offer guarantees for results.
The right facility makes a difference. A wrong choice can create issues in the drug testing process. Take time to evaluate all options. You can read more about National Drug Screening’s turnaround times for drug testing.
Common Drug Test Panels
Urine Drug Tests
Urine tests are affordable, easy to collect, and effective at detecting recent drug use. Older drug use may not be detectable because urine clears quickly. We offer a 5-panel, 10-panel, and fentanyl urine test.
Oral Fluid Drug Tests
Hair Follicle Drug Tests
DOT 5-Panel Test
The DOT 5-panel test follows standard chain of custody procedures provided by the DOT and are designed to minimize tampering. This test detects five different DOT-banned compounds:
- THC
- Cocaine
- PCP
- Amphetamines
- Opioids
Drug Testing Services FAQ
What does a 10-panel drug test detect?
Some drug testing companies offer a more extensive 10-panel test that detects ten different drug compounds, which goes beyond the typical employment requirements. The number of substances detected makes it harder for drug use to go unnoticed.
Here are the ten substances detected in this test:
- Marijuana (THC)
- PCP (Phencyclidine)
- Cocaine
- Amphetamines
- Opiates (Codeine, Morphine, Heroin)
- Benzodiazepines
- Barbiturates
- Propoxyphene
- Methadone
- Methaqualone (Quaaludes)
For DOT requirements, the DOT 5 panel drug test detects Marijuana metabolites, Cocaine metabolites, Amphetamines, Phencyclidine (PCP), and Opioids including Codeine, Morphine, Hydrocodone, Hydromorphone, Oxycodone, Oxymorphone, and 6-Acetylmorphine (6AM). 6AM is the metabolite of heroin.
What steps can I take to guarantee accurate and trustworthy drug test results?
Drug test reliability can vary based on how tests are performed. To guarantee accurate results, follow these steps:
- Choose a reliable provider: Research drug testing providers in your area for one that offers the services you need. Contact them directly to ask about the specific tests they offer and any additional services, like MROs, a SAMHSA certification, or workplace programs. Narrow down your options based on what fits your company’s needs.
- Define your drug testing policy: Write down your policy clearly to include
- testing procedures,
- consequences for failure,
- and how employees will be informed.
The policy should be included in your employee handbook and you need to cover it during orientation. National Drug Screening helps create drug-free workplace policies for both DOT and Non-DOT companies.
- Select the right testing method: Identify which drugs you want to screen for and consult with your provider to figure out the best test for these substances. For example, if you’re concerned about recent drug use, an oral fluid drug test might be best. If you need to detect long-term use, a hair test could be more appropriate.
- Consider random drug testing: Set up a random testing schedule. Decide how often and when you’ll conduct these tests, keeping it unpredictable. Inform employees that random testing will occur but without specifying exact dates or times to make it harder for employees to plan around the tests.
- Ensure proper chain of custody: Create a clear process for sample collection, storage, and delivery to the lab. Outline each step in writing so all employees follow the proper procedures to prevent errors or tampering. Use a professional provider and specimen collection facility.
By following these steps, you’ll ensure the drug testing process is consistent and accurate from start to finish.
