Drug screening new and potential hires is a common practice for many companies. This is done to deter illicit drug use and ensure substance abuse problems won’t compromise employees’ ability to do their jobs. As it’s easy to obtain, urine is often used for a standard drug test. To determine whether urinalysis is the right drug screening method for your operation, below are answers to common questions about the process. 

FAQ About Urine Drug Screening

Why choose urinalysis?

Although saliva and hair drug tests are available, urinalysis is the only approved method for federally-authorized screenings. Whereas hair testing is best for identifying chronic substance abuse, urinalysis can detect infrequent usage. With the presence of drugs undetectable after a few minutes or 48 hours after saliva testing, the detection window for urinalysis is much more comprehensive. 

What drugs does urinalysis detect?

Urine drug screening can detect the presence of numerous substances, including illicit narcotics and prescription medication. In addition to cocaine, marijuana, and alcohol, employers will know whether an employee uses amphetamines, methamphetamines, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, opiates, and other drugs that can affect performance or cause long-term health problems that affect insurance rates.

What is the window of detection with urine?

How long a drug can be detected depends on what the substance is, and the type of biological sample tested. In urine, the window of detection for stimulants, such as crystal meth and speed, is one to two days. Cocaine can be detected in the system up to four days after use. If a person is a heavy marijuana smoker, the substance will be present in urine for one or two months after the last use. 

Can the test be altered?

To compromise the results or mask the presence of certain substances, some people might ingest masking agents or try to add them to the sample during the drug screening. Lab technicians are familiar with the deception. That’s why they also test samples for nitrites, bleach, and other oxidizing agents.

If you need drug screening for hiring purposes, random evaluations, or after an incident, contact the professionals at EMSI-BiState Professional Services. Based in Chesterfield, MO, the team can provide in-office and mobile substance abuse testing for companies in the St. Louis County area. Find out more about their services on the company’s website and Facebook page and call (636) 537-3200 today to discuss their various testing options.