Getting a new job is exciting, but before you can start, you often need to pass a drug test. Opinions about employment drug testing may vary, but it remains a requirement to work at many businesses and organizations. If you’re curious about the process, here are the answers to some commonly asked questions. 

4 FAQ About Drug Tests 

Why is employment drug testing important? 

Many jobs have safety concerns, especially if they involve transportation, healthcare, or machine operation. By requiring a prospective employee to take a drug test before starting work, a company is more likely to protect their assets, environment, and other employees from preventable accidents. Some employers request drug testing to prove that their new hire’s productivity won’t be impacted by drug abuse. 

What does a urine drug test detect? 

Urine samples are useful for exposing the use of marijuana, cocaine, nicotine, opiates, amphetamines, methamphetamines, MDA analogs, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and alcohol. The sample may be screened for all of these substances—which is known as a 10-panel drug test—or only some. They can be detected through chemicals, but the sample’s temperature must also be in a certain range, or it will be considered untestable. 

What is the drug screening process like? 

The company will provide you with a chain of custody form, noting the clinic you should visit and what type of test you need. Typically, you’ll be required to provide the sample within 24 to 72 hours to increase the likelihood of catching potential evidence of drug abuse before the chemicals leave your system. At the clinic, you’ll be given a container in which to urinate. After providing the sample, the container will be closed with a lid and taped with a seal showing your name and other information. The seal must remain intact. A broken one will not be tested, and you’ll have to provide a new sample. 

How should you prepare for a drug test? 

There are several ways to ensure that your test goes smoothly. In the two or three hours before the test, drink enough water to produce enough urine. An insufficient amount will be rejected. However, don’t drink so much water that your urine will be too diluted to test accurately. In fact, the clearer your urine, the more likely it is to be rejected. In either of these cases, you would have to provide a new sample. 

To know more about pre-employment drug tests and how to prepare for them, contact Lab Testing Solutions in Suwanee, GA. With more than a decade of experience in drug screening and conducting background checks, they’ll give you advice to ensure that the process goes smoothly. You can also use their drug testing services in the event of a DUI, divorce, athletic competition, and more. Learn more about their services by calling (678) 491-4885 or checking out their website.