Drug Screening & Testing
Workplace drug screening programs with nationwide collection network. DOT-compliant and non-DOT testing for pre-employment, random programs, and post-accident scenarios.
Testing Methods
Different testing methods detect drug use over different time windows. The right method depends on the reason for testing, the substances you're screening for, and organizational policy.
Urine Testing
Most common method for workplace drug screening. Detects recent use (typically 1-3 days for most substances, longer for marijuana). Fast results and cost-effective.
Detection Window:
1-3 days (most substances), 3-30 days (marijuana)
Oral Fluid (Saliva) Testing
Non-invasive collection with observed donor. Detects very recent use (typically 24-48 hours). Harder to adulterate than urine. Good for post-accident and reasonable suspicion testing.
Detection Window:
24-48 hours
Hair Testing
Detects drug use over a longer period (typically 90 days). Cannot determine timing or frequency of use. Often used for pre-employment screening where long-term history matters.
Detection Window:
90 days
Note: Detection windows are approximate and vary based on individual metabolism, frequency of use, dosage, and substance-specific factors. Testing method and cutoff levels also affect detectability.
Panel Configurations
Drug screening panels determine which substances are tested. Standard panels cover the most common drugs of abuse. Custom panels address specific risks or compliance requirements.
| Panel | Substances Tested | Common Usage |
|---|---|---|
| 5-Panel | Marijuana, Cocaine, Amphetamines, Opiates, PCP | DOT-required standard and most common pre-employment panel |
| 10-Panel | 5-panel substances + Benzodiazepines, Barbiturates, Methadone, Propoxyphene, Quaaludes | Extended non-DOT panel for broader coverage |
| Expanded Opiates | Includes synthetic opioids (Oxycodone, Hydrocodone, Hydromorphone, Oxymorphone) | Addresses prescription opioid misuse not detected in standard panels |
| Custom Panels | Configurable based on industry, role, or organizational policy | Tailored screening for specific risk profiles or compliance requirements |
DOT vs. Non-DOT Testing
DOT-regulated employers (transportation, aviation, transit, railroad, pipeline, maritime) must follow federal testing requirements. Non-DOT employers have more flexibility in program design.
| Aspect | DOT Testing | Non-DOT Testing |
|---|---|---|
| Regulatory Authority | Mandated by Department of Transportation for safety-sensitive positions (FMCSA, FAA, FTA, FRA, PHMSA, USCG) | Voluntary employer policy or state-specific requirements (some states mandate for certain industries) |
| Testing Panel | Strict 5-panel only (Marijuana, Cocaine, Amphetamines, Opiates, PCP). Cannot add or remove substances. | Flexible panel configuration (5-panel, 10-panel, custom). Employer chooses substances to test. |
| Collection Process | Strict chain of custody, DOT-certified collectors, Federal Custody and Control Form (CCF) required | Standard chain of custody. Less rigid collection procedures (though still professional and defensible). |
| MRO Review | Medical Review Officer (MRO) review is mandatory for all results | MRO review is optional but strongly recommended for defensibility |
| Cutoff Levels | Federal cutoff levels (non-negotiable) | Employer can set cutoff levels (typically follow SAMHSA guidelines) |
PSBI Handles DOT Compliance Automatically
When you configure a position as DOT safety-sensitive, PSBI applies the correct testing requirements: 5-panel only, DOT-certified collection sites, proper forms, mandatory MRO review, and compliant random selection rates by DOT agency (FMCSA, FAA, etc.).
For non-DOT positions, you define the panel, testing scenarios, and program rules. PSBI handles the logistics while you control the policy.
When to Use Drug Screening
Drug screening can be triggered at different points in the employment lifecycle. Each scenario serves a different purpose and has different procedural requirements.
Pre-Employment
Screen candidates before hire to reduce workplace risk, meet insurance requirements, or comply with industry regulations. Most common trigger for drug testing.
Post-Accident
Test after workplace incidents, injuries, or vehicle accidents to determine if substance use was a contributing factor. Often required by workers' comp or DOT.
Reasonable Suspicion
Test when supervisor or manager observes behavior consistent with impairment. Requires trained observers and documented observations.
Random Testing
Ongoing deterrent testing with unannounced selection from a defined pool. Required for DOT-regulated positions; optional but effective for non-DOT.
Return to Duty
Required before an employee returns to work after a positive test or policy violation. Part of a structured substance abuse program.
Follow-Up Testing
Scheduled tests after return to duty as part of ongoing monitoring (typically 6-12 months of unannounced follow-up testing).
MRO Review & Turnaround
Medical Review Officer (MRO) review is the final step in the drug screening process. The MRO evaluates positive and adulterated results to determine if there's a legitimate medical explanation before reporting to the employer.
Negative Results
Typically returned within 24-48 hours of specimen collection. Lab processes the test, and if no substances are detected above cutoff levels, the result is reported as negative.
No MRO review required for negative results.
Positive Results
Lab-positive results are sent to the MRO, who contacts the donor to discuss legitimate medical reasons (prescription medications, etc.). If no valid explanation, MRO reports positive to employer.
Additional 1-3 business days for MRO review and donor contact.
Adulterated / Substituted
If the lab determines the specimen was tampered with or substituted, the MRO reviews the findings and may require a retest under direct observation or report the result as a refusal to test.
Additional review time; may trigger employer policy violations.
How Pricing Works
Drug screening costs include the PSBI service fee, lab analysis fees, and collection site fees. Pricing varies by testing method (urine, oral fluid, hair), panel configuration, and collection network.
PSBI service fees are transparent and consistent. Lab and collection costs are passed through at cost with no markup. Contact us for a detailed quote based on your testing volume, panel selection, and geographic coverage needs.
Related Services
Drug screening is often part of a broader compliance program that includes random testing, occupational health, and ongoing monitoring.
Random Testing Programs
DOT-compliant and non-DOT random selection, scheduling, and documentation. Automated selection pools and audit-ready record keeping.
Learn MoreOccupational Health Testing
DOT physicals, fit-for-duty exams, respirator fit testing, and other occupational health services that complement drug screening programs.
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See how PreSearch handles drug screening programs and compliance for your organization.