When starting a new job, employees often face some requirements to prepare for their new responsibilities. One of these may be a drug test. Drug tests are a necessary component that employers use to ensure safe practices for employees and hold employees accountable for their actions. Here are some advantages to requiring drug tests for employment that all employers will want to know.

Employee Accountability

Hiring new employees is a risk for companies. It’s safe to assume those who apply for a new job understand the commitments and responsibilities involved. However, drug tests further ensure no substance abuse occurs on the job, keeping employees accountable for their actions. Those who fail to understand the responsibilities in place must undergo drug tests to ensure they are mentally and physically capable of undergoing the various job responsibilities expected of them. This also ensures safe work practices for new hires as well as the safety and well-being of their coworkers and environment.

Ensure a Safe Work Environment

Drug testing ensures an overall safe work environment for everyone involved. It deters substance abuse that can affect job performance and cognition. Employees who use illicit substances, or abuse legal ones, are liable for the health and safety of their coworkers. This is especially true for industrial applications that use heavy machinery and tools. Drug testing thus reduces the chance of onsite injuries, accidents, and health problems. Those with underlying health conditions that require medication that may test positive on a drug test should inform employers of their usage in compliance with the safety protocols in place.

Comply With State and Federal Regulations

Another advantage to requiring drug tests for employment is that it complies with State and Federal regulations. Employers are responsible for best practices in their industry. As such, they must comply with State and Federal health, safety, and business practices. Drug testing falls under this scope, so employers must ensure they comply with top practices to avoid legal ramifications. Since one cannot guarantee future employees will pass drug tests, it’s best to test all employees to ensure everyone follows these rules and regulations to the best of their ability. Otherwise, companies face the risk of onsite violations if they neglect to do so.

AMH Nationwide offers 10-panel hair follicle tests perfect for employee drug testing. Our state-of-the-art lab testing streamlines the process of onsite drug testing and detects up to 10 substances, including amphetamines, cocaine, opiates, PCP, marijuana, methadone, oxycodone, and more. Results will typically come within one to seven business days, but on average, in three to five—however, we cannot guarantee these response times. The hair follicle test is a safe, non-invasive process that collects scalp hair, facial hair, body hair, or public hair to detect these substances. If you have any further questions, please contact us, and we’ll answer them as soon as possible.