Drug Test

What Does Drug Test Mean?

A drug test is a chemical test designed to determine if an individual has consumed any illicit substances in the recent past. Drug tests are usually part of the hiring process, but can also be used in the case of an on-the-job accident, prior to promotions, and in many other instances.

Maximum Yield Explains Drug Test

Employers want to reduce the potential risk of hiring the wrong person for their business. They want to ensure that the individual they hire is responsible, will show up on time, will not steal from the workplace, and will be safe while on the job. The interview process and background check conducted in most instances provide most of this information, but most hirers will also require that you go through a drug test prior to offering you a position.

A drug test can take several different forms. The most common is a urine test, in which you’re required to urinate into a small container, which is then tested for signs of illicit drugs. Other types of drug tests that might be used include a hair test, in which a small amount of your hair is sent for testing, and blood testing. Note that blood testing is not generally used as a pre-employment type of drug testing, but reserved for situations involving workplace accidents.

A drug test is only able to show a specific number of substances. The more comprehensive the test, the higher the cost to the employer. So, employers usually only test for the most common types of drugs, such as PCP, cocaine, and the like. Unfortunately, marijuana is also one of the usual suspects. THC can remain in your blood and urine for up to 90 days if you regularly partake of marijuana, or up to 30 days if you’re a light imbiber. However, it shows up in hair samples for a very, very long time.