The ABC’s of Drug Testing

What kind of drugs do you test for?
Generally the tests that are tested for fall under the compliance of the standard DOT protocol. The tests that are being tested for are:

• Marijuana
• Cocaine
• Opiates (opium and codeine derivatives)
• Amphetamines (amphetamines and methamphetamines)
• Phencyclidine (PCP)

How long before you get the results?
Testing Procedures: Every test is next day aired to lab for processing.

Urine: Able to do instant result tests which results are generally shown within 5 minutes. If lab confirmation is needed generally the result will be within 24-72 hours.
Saliva: 24-48 hour time frame for result
Hair: 24-48 hour time frame for result
All tests are confidential

Will prescription drugs show up in my drug test?

Some prescriptions may fall into the categories that are screened (such as opiates) and may show up as positive tests. That is why a doctor reviews the tests; you’ll get a call if there is a question about prescription drugs. If the prescription is yours (and you can prove it) you should be reported as negative, and the employer will never hear anything about the results, except that you passed. If you are taking medications that were not prescribed to you, it’s still considered a positive drug test, and you will not pass the screen. The safest bet is to never take a drug that was not prescribed for you – not even your friends, parents, grandparent’s or spouse’s.

Who has access to my results?
Your results are sent from the lab to the HR department that requested the test. US Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations must use a use a medical review officer (a licensed M.D.) to review the results and resolve any test issues. Generally, the employer will be informed that you tested negative or positive (and for which substance.) The drug screen results should be filed separately from your application, although company policies may vary. All tests are confidential.