Drug abuse is prevalent not only in society but also in the workplace. According to a study, more than 68 percent of drug users are employed, and a third of that number is aware of the illegal sale of drugs at work. Because of this, both the employee and the employer are negatively affected due to poor job performance, productivity issues, and conflict among colleagues.
As such, more companies are conducting regular drug tests and pre-employment drug testing to ensure the wellness of their people. Unfortunately, substance users still find a way to cheat on drug exams by diluting urine samples or substituting collected urine.
Prevent this from happening and keep your company drug-free by taking the following actions.
Conduct Random Drug Tests
Conducting random drug tests is one of the most common and effective ways to combat drug exam cheating. When you announce the test one week, or even a day before it is planned, substance users can prepare their systems by drinking coconut water or vinegar. Administer a drug test on the day your employees least expect it.
Make Use of Other Testing Methods
Urine testing is a common procedure used in a drug exam; it is also one of the most effective. If you would really like to get exact, non-tampered results, however, you may opt for other methods such as instant employee drug testing, oral fluid drug testing, or blood drug testing. Ask your local occupational medicine provider, such as U.S. HealthWorks, about this.
Provide an Area for Specimen Collection
Don’t let your employees collect their specimen in an area far from your view. Doing this allows them to possibly cheat by substituting their urine. Arrange for a specimen collection site, such as a spacious conference room that has its own lavatory. This way, you can detect suspicious actions related to drug test cheating.
Request Employees to Submit all Belongings
Before an employee provides their specimen, request him or her to submit all personal belongings found inside their pockets, shoes, or any other possible hiding areas. This may sound strict, but it is one of the best ways to guarantee that he or she does not cheat on the test.
Hire a Drug Testing Representative
A representative of the occupational medicine provider you work with can help your employees through the drug test process. He or she can be present at the collection site and guide your workers to make sure that the specimen submitted has not been tampered or substituted.
Apart from strengthening your company, drug tests also ensure the overall wellness of your workers. As an employer, it is important to help your employees avoid any kind of substance abuse. Let your company thrive and make it a better place for everyone.
Sources:
DRUGS AND ALCOHOL IN THE WORKPLACE, ncadd.org
Workplace Drug Abuse, drugabuse.com
