7 Common Mistakes to Avoid in Professional Drug Screening

Implementing an effective drug screening program for your employees or students requires careful planning and compliance. Even minor oversights can undermine your testing, compromise accuracy, and create legal risks.

Avoid these 7 common mistakes to ensure your professional drug screening program follows best practices:


1. Failing to Inform Candidates

Surprising candidates with drug tests are legally problematic. Always provide advance written notice that testing will be required and gain written consent. Ensure your employee handbook and all offer letters outline testing policies clearly.

2. Inconsistent Testing Procedures

Standardize your drug screening processes across all locations and personnel. Document step-by-step protocols for scheduling, consent, specimen collection, labeling, paperwork, results, and more. Train everyone on following procedures precisely. Audit periodically for consistency. 

3. Not Using a Trusted Lab

Your testing lab impacts the reliability of the professional drug screening test results. Select a certified lab with stringent procedures, confirmation testing, experienced staff, and quality control audits in place. Avoid labs with sloppy handling, unclear methods, or lack of accreditation.

4. Rushing Collection and Paperwork

Meticulous sample collection and clear documentation are vital. Never rush specimen gathering or paperwork. Ensure collectors are properly trained to handle samples per protocol. Have an air-tight chain of custody tracking for legal defensibility. 

5. Disregarding Legal Guidelines 

Know and follow all applicable federal, state, and industry regulations, especially for transportation and healthcare industries. Consult experienced legal counsel to avoid compliance gaps or violations. Stay updated on evolving laws.

6. Assuming Negative Means “Clean”

Negative tests don’t guarantee someone is 100% substance-free. Know the detection windows and limitations of your testing methods. Make hiring decisions cautiously and educate staff on misperceptions about passing a professional drug screening.

7. Insecure Handling of Results

Treat test results as highly confidential records with restricted access. Only designated staff should obtain results through secure channels. Never share info improperly. Honor promises of anonymity when possible.  

Wrap Up

Avoiding these missteps will help your drug screening program operate smoothly while providing reliable insights. With air-tight procedures and legal compliance, you can test confidently. Reach out if we can help review and strengthen your professional drug screening process.


Location: United States

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