What a Failed Drug Test Means
Drug tests are often given as part of a pre-employment screening. As such, they can really make the difference between whether you get the job or not. Of course, random drug tests are also given once you’re employed. These will determine if you remain employed by the company. Clearly, you can see why a failed drug test could be a major concern here.
The Importance of a Failed Drug Test
The most commonly used drug test method is a urinalysis. In fact, using urine is the only test that’s approved for a variety of settings. Other methods also exist though. One is the hair follicle test in which a piece of hair is used. Another is a mouth swab that uses a sample of your saliva.
Regardless of how you are drug tested, it’s possible to have a failed drug test. Sometimes this is caused by foods you’ve eaten or medications you’ve taken. To prevent this from happening you should be honest, up front about what you’ve taken. Even Tylenol can come back as a Barbiturate.
Consequences happen when you don’t warn the tester about any possible medications or foods beforehand. This can impact your employment. If the test is for an employment offer, you probably won’t be hired. When the test is conducted randomly for a job you already have, you could be fired. Drug tests are so important because when you’re high on the job you create risky work conditions. As such, companies usually won’t take a drug fail lightly.
Make sure you understand your employer’s policy about drug use. Read through this before accepting a job offer too. By doing so you won’t jeopardize your job.
What Happens at Work with a Failed Drug Test
After a failed drug test you may get a second chance, if you’re lucky. However, before returning to work you’ll be required to take a second test. This will happen after you’re given a leave from work so you can get sober. Most companies will make you take drug counseling classes while you’re on leave. If you don’t have another failed drug test, you can typically return to work. You’ll probably be required to take more drug tests. Sometimes these are conducted on a weekly basis. These are your opportunity to prove your sobriety. Just how often these drug tests occur will depend on the guidelines that were established. Each workplace is different but it’s obviously in your best interest to remain sober. Another failed test could cost you your job.
