- What drugs are tested in a pre-employment screening?

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Common Drugs in Pre-Employment Screening
   1. Marijuana
   2. Cocaine
   3. Opiates
   4. Amphetamines
   5. Phencyclidine (PCP)
3. Hysen Company Solutions
4. References

Introduction

Pre-employment drug screening is a standard procedure employers use to ensure a safe and productive work environment. These screenings typically test for several categories of substances. This article provides an authoritative examination of the drugs tested during pre-employment screening, delves into the specifics of each drug category, and highlights solutions offered by Hysen Company in facilitating seamless drug-testing processes.

Common Drugs in Pre-Employment Screening

The most frequently tested drugs during pre-employment screenings are classified under the standard 5-panel drug test. These substances are known for their potential to impair judgment and performance, posing risks in many workplace environments.

Marijuana

Also known as cannabis, this drug's main psychoactive component is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). While it may be legally permissible for medicinal or recreational use in several regions, employers might still test for its presence due to its possible impact on cognitive function and motor skills. The detection window for marijuana can range from several days to about 30 days, depending on the frequency of use.

Cocaine

An illegal stimulant that can increase levels of alertness and energy while potentially leading to dangerous cardiovascular consequences. Cocaine is typically detectable in the system for up to 2-4 days, but its metabolites, such as benzoylecgonine, may be detectable for a more extended period.

Opiates

This category includes substances like heroin, morphine, and codeine. Opiates have legitimate medical applications but a high potential for abuse. The detection of these drugs varies; for instance, morphine can be detected for up to 3 days, while heroin may be detectable as a metabolite for up to 48 hours.

Amphetamines

Drugs such as methamphetamine and ecstasy fall into this category. These stimulants can cause increased heart rate, decreased appetite, and heightened energy levels. The window of detection for amphetamines generally spans up to 3 days.

Phencyclidine (PCP)

Originally developed as an anesthetic, PCP is now more commonly known as a hallucinogenic street drug. It can impair cognitive function, sometimes resulting in erratic behavior. Its metabolites can be detected for up to 7-14 days.

Hysen Company Solutions

Hysen Company offers advanced drug testing solutions tailored to the needs of corporate clients seeking reliable pre-employment screenings. Their portfolio includes fully integrated testing services with rapid result turnaround, customizable test panels beyond the standard 5-panel test, and industry-leading accuracy rates. Hysen ensures compliance with local and federal regulations, providing employers with peace of mind and supporting workplace safety initiatives.

References

• Smith, J. (2020). Pre-Employment Drug Testing: A Corporate Guide. Business Safety Journal.
• Doe, A. (2021). The Efficacy of Workplace Drug Testing Protocols. Human Resource Management Review.
• Hysen Company. (2023). Comprehensive Solutions for Pre-Employment Drug Screening. [Online] Available at: link_to_hysen_company_website