In today’s workplace, government-mandated drug testing and the industry-standard “5 panel” drug test may not be enough. Over the past several years, our communities have seen a significant increase in the abuse of:
- Heroin – this is now at epidemic levels
- Synthetic Opiates
- Oxycodone
- Synthetic THC
- Fentanyl
- Morphine
- Methadone
- Buprenorphine
- Methamphetamines
In addition, the US market is constantly flooded with a stream of ever-changing drugs of abuse from foreign markets: Kratom, Flakka, Salvia, and Khat are just a few examples.
When you are creating your Non-DOT Drug Testing Program, it is important to consider what drugs you want to screen for. Don’t choose a one size fits all option. Customize your program to meet your specific needs.
So how do you combat these risks in today’s workplace? These four important steps are necessary:
- Review and evaluate your current substance abuse policies. Once revisions are determined, distribute in writing to all employees subject to the policy, and obtain signed and dated acknowledgment of receipt form.
- Update your test panel to include a more comprehensive and current configuration.
- Provide updated information to employees on current trends in substance abuse and the dangers of substance abuse.
- EDUCATE YOUR SUPERVISORS! Provide education to supervisors on not only the classic drugs of abuse, which are still alive and well, but on the new drugs of abuse and how to handle reasonable suspicion situations legally and effectively.
Contact us today to discuss the numerous options for enhancing the effectiveness of your workplace testing program!