Drug Testing During the Hiring Process

Drug testing is a common practice for employers before hiring new employees. There are many reasons why an employer might want to do drug tests on their candidates, but the candidate must know what to expect and when they will be tested.

What is the purpose of drug testing during the hiring process?

There are many reasons why employers might want to do a drug test on their potential employees. One of the most common is that drug use can create a liability issue for the employer. For example, suppose an employee does a job that requires them to be alert and aware. In that case, their employer can be held liable if that person causes accidents for co-workers or customers while under the influence. In addition, certain jobs require specific drug testing to meet state or federal regulations, such as those who work with machinery, handle hazardous materials, or work with vulnerable populations.

In most cases, a candidate seeking first-time employment can be tested as a condition of employment without reasonable suspicion of drug use. Still, employers should have a clear and consistent drug-testing process for all applicants. This way, everyone will know what is expected and when they need to be tested.