When you start a new job, you’ll face a lot of new paperwork, HR orientation, and training to prepare you for the work at hand.
However, you may also be required to complete a preemployment drug test. Whether or not this seems strange to you, there’s valid reason for it. Read our guide on the most common reasons employers require a drug test to learn more.
To monitor the safety of the workplace
One of the most important reasons why employers require preemployment drug screenings is to ensure the safety and well-being of the workplace. When you start a new job in the business or industrial sector, you’re now the employer’s responsibility. Anyone under the influence of an illicit substance poses a risk to the productivity and safety of the rest of the team. Drug testing reduces this risk through identifying possible substance abuse during the hiring process before the work starts.
To hold employees accountable
Drug testing also holds employees accountable for their actions. Companies, warehouses, and manufacturing facilities still have to operate their businesses. Employees who abuse drugs or alcohol in the workplace not only pose safety risks but also reduce productivity. They may also pose a hindrance to operational costs through increased supervision and poor performance. Therefore, employers must drug test to ensure future employees are up for the tasks at hand.
To do so, employers use a variety of preemployment drug tests, commonly including urine tests, saliva tests, hair tests, or fingernail or toenail tests. Each test identifies different substances and times of prior use.
To comply with state and federal regulations
There are also greater factors at play. Another common reason employers require drug tests is that these tests comply with state and federal regulations. Employers must monitor their employees to ensure no one is under the influence of illegal narcotics. If they fail to do so, companies face fines or penalties, resulting in greater overhead costs and possible foreclosure of the business.
