A good pre-employment drug screening program can help you make informed hiring decisions, create a safer workplace, and encourage a productive work environment. But a drug testing policy shouldn’t be an afterthought or something you implement in a hurry. You need a clear, written policy that explains when testing occurs, who’s required to undergo it, and how you use the results, and all of those things must be in compliance with relevant regulations. This guide explains how to manage background check records while reducing confusion and supporting fair, compliant hiring practices.
Creating a Clear, Written Policy
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The best time to establish a formal drug testing policy is before you begin hiring. But the second-best time to establish a policy is now. If you haven’t had a drug testing policy before, it’s time to create one. The policy should outline whether a pre-employment drug screen is required for every applicant or only for those applying for specific positions. It should also explain the testing process, the drugs you’re screening for, how they’ll receive instructions for their testing, and what will happen if someone receives a positive result or refuses to take a test.
Of course, you may need to partner with a drug test provider first to get some of this information, such as information about the testing process. But by providing every applicant the same information upfront, you’ll have a more consistent hiring process. Make sure your managers and anyone else involved in hiring also understand the policy so they can apply it consistently too.
Staying Compliant with Regulations
Drug testing laws vary by state, and in some cases, by city or county. It’s important to review the regulations that apply to your business before you implement a drug screening program. Some places have restrictions on when applicants can be tested, while others have different laws about things like marijuana use, notice requirements, or employee rights.
You should also be aware of any industry-specific regulations you need to comply with. For example, companies in transportation, healthcare, aviation, and other industries where safety is a major concern might have additional requirements that apply to their workplace testing policies.
Partnering with a Qualified Test Provider
Choosing an experienced pre-employment drug screening provider helps simplify your hiring process while helping you remain compliant with all relevant regulations. A good provider can explain testing methods, work with you to collect samples for testing, and maintain a proper chain of custody during the testing process. Then, they’ll give you results that are accurate and easy to read. Truly, the right provider is the foundation of a good drug testing policy for any business, so choose yours wisely.