After a positive interview, you may be ready to accept a job offer right away. But, before an official contract is signed, many companies require new hires to complete a pre-employment drug test. Sometimes, employees also have to pass occasional tests during their time with a company. If your current employer or potential employer is asking you to take a drug test, it’s important to know what to expect.

Workplace Drug Test FAQs

What do drug tests screen for?

The typical employer drug test is a five-panel test, which screens for marijuana, cocaine, phencyclidine (PCP), amphetamines (speed, ecstasy, methamphetamines), and opiates (heroin, opium, codeine). A ten-panel test will look for those five substances, in addition to barbiturates, benzodiazepines, methadone, methaqualone, and propoxyphene.

Do false positives occur?

A false positive is possible if you have molecules in your body that are similar to drug molecules, but this is preventable if you know common causes. Some medications that may lead to a false positive include quinolones (antibiotics), Rifampin, Verapamil, Diphenhydramine, antidepressants, and anti-cold tablets containing pseudoephedrine.

Will a failed drug test become public record?

A failed drug test may result in a rescinded job offer or job termination, but only the company that requested the test will see the results. Therefore, it will not affect a future background check and it will not become public record. The employer that required the failed drug test cannot disclose this information to another employer, even when giving a reference.

How long are drugs in my system?

How long a drug stays "detectable" depends on your use and the test that's performed, but there are general estimates that can help you know what to expect. Some drugs typically remain detectable for only a few hours, including alcohol (one hour and 30 minutes per ounce), LSD (eight hours), and heroin metabolite (less than 24 hours). Other drugs can remain in your system for multiple days, such as amphetamines (two days), morphine (two to three days), cocaine (two to 10 days), PCP (one week), and marijuana (three to four days when used casually, several weeks when used chronically).

EMSI-BiState Professional Services offers comprehensive laboratory drug testing and background screenings at their state-of-the-art facility in Chesterfield, MO. They have over 30 years of experience with substance abuse testing and can arrange on-site mobile testing for your office. Learn more about their organization online, or call (636) 537-3200 to schedule a drug test.