If you are in the job market, either job hunting or already employed, you may be required to take drug tests. Companies implement drug tests to deter drug use, protect their customers and employees, and maintain productivity. These tests may include blood tests, urine tests, breath tests, and hair tests, though the latter are a bit unusual. Another unusual but very common drug test that job hunters may be required to take is a mouth swab drug test. Below we’ll learn more about mouth swab drug tests, and about what you can say if your employer asks for you to take a drug test.
What is a Mouth Swab Drug Test?
A mouth swab drug test is most commonly known as a saliva or oral-fluids test. This is a common drug test as it is one of the least expensive methods of administering drug tests. During the test, the job applicant uses a swab to collect the saliva inside of the mouth and this swab is used for testing. Detection can take from 4-48 hours, depending on the substance.
What Drugs Does it Test for?
A mouth swab drug test can test for the following substances:
- Alcohol
- THC Drugs (such as Marijuana)
- Amphetamines
- Methamphetamines and Ecstasy
- Heroine and Opiates
- Cocaine
- Nicotine (Tobacco)
When Will I Get Tested?
It is common that potential job candidates will be tested after applying for a job. There are other cases in which your employer will test you before you get a promotion. If somehow someone suspects you of drug use, your employer may also conduct a drug test, or sometimes you may be tested randomly. Employers may give you a short notice to deter possible drug addicts.
Do I Have to be Tested?
You cannot be forced to take a drug test, but there are usually consequences for refusing to take one. The employer can decide whether or not to hire you, fire you, suspend you, and even reject your promotion. Another thing to keep in mind is that some companies are required by law to perform these drug tests.
Before taking the test, check out your company’s employee handbook and ask your employer about the drug policies. If this doesn’t provide the information you need in full, you can always go to human resources for additional information. It is also a good idea to research your state’s policies as well, as many policies differ from state to state. Be sure to check for limits on how these drug tests can be managed or directed.
What About False Positives?
Occasionally substances other than drugs can be detected in a mouth swab drug test that may indicate a postive result that is false. For those that may be required to take a drug test, avoiding certain foods, such as those that contain poppy seeds is a good idea, as these can cause you to fail the drug test. In addition, some medications can cause a failed drug test, even though the medication isn’t an abused substance. If you’ve eaten something or are taking medication that may cause you to fail the test, it’s best to communicate the situation to your employer so they can take this into account.
If you would like more information about mouth swab or other commonly administered drug tests, contact The Sedona Group Austin, located in Austin, TX.
The post Mouth Swab Drug Tests And The Substances They Test For appeared first on TSGI, Inc.
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