Why Is Drug Testing Important?
To minimize risks and ensure adherence to regulations, it is essential for employers to carry out routine drug testing. By establishing thorough testing procedures, companies can make better-informed decisions when hiring and lower their risk of liability. This approach not only safeguards the organization from workplace accidents and possible legal troubles but also shows a commitment to due diligence and compliance with industry standards.
VeriFirst DoubleCheck
Our trained team will manually verify criminal record hits, providing accurate information and reducing the risk of false matches.
5-Panel, Drug Test
Standard lab-conducted urinalysis screening method for detecting the presence of five commonly abused substances in urine. These include:
- Marijuana (THC) – Detects tetrahydrocannabinol, the psychoactive compound in cannabis.
- Cocaine (COC) – Identifies the presence of benzoylecgonine, a metabolite of cocaine.
- Opiates (OPI) – Screens for morphine, codeine, and heroin derivatives.
- Amphetamines (AMP) – Includes amphetamine and methamphetamine detection.
- Phencyclidine (PCP) – Identifies the hallucinogenic drug phencyclidine, also known as angel dust.
Note: Marijuana can be removed to create a 4-panel test.
10-Panel, Drug Test
Lab-conducted urinalysis screening used to detect the presence of ten common drugs and their metabolites in a urine sample. These include:
- Amphetamines (e.g., Adderall, methamphetamine)
- Cocaine (benzoylecgonine, a metabolite of cocaine)
- Marijuana (THC) (tetrahydrocannabinol and metabolites)
- Opiates (e.g., heroin, morphine, codeine)
- Phencyclidine (PCP) (angel dust)
- Barbiturates (e.g., phenobarbital, secobarbital)
- Benzodiazepines (e.g., Valium, Xanax)
- Methadone (synthetic opioid used for pain relief or opioid treatment)
- Methamphetamines (e.g., crystal meth)
- Propoxyphene (an opioid pain reliever, now discontinued in the U.S.)
Note: Marijuana can be removed to create a 9-panel test.
Rapid On-Site Drug Test
A rapid drug test is an instant screening method used by employers to detect the presence of drugs in a candidate or employee’s system. This type of test provides fast results, typically within a few minutes, making it ideal for pre-employment screening, random workplace testing, and post-accident evaluations.
Key Features:
- Instant Results: Typically, within 5-10 minutes
- Non-Invasive: Uses urine or saliva sample
- On-Site Testing: Conducted at the workplace or testing facility
- Multi-Panel Options: Can detect a variety of substances, using a 4, 5, 9, or 10-panel test option.
Benefits for Employers:
- Reduces Downtime: Employees do not need to visit off-site labs.
- Decision-Making: Helps with hiring and compliance decisions.
- Deters Workplace Drug Use: Supports a safe and drug-free work environment.
Note: If a test yields a positive result, it is sent to a certified laboratory / MRO for confirmatory testing to ensure accuracy.
Average Turnaround Times
The turnaround time for a urinalysis drug test depends on the type of test performed and the processing method. On average, results can be expected within the following time frames:
Standard Urinalysis Drug Test:
- Rapid On-Site Test: 5–10 minutes
- Lab-Based Screening: 1–3 days
- Confirmation Test/MRO (if needed): 3–5 days
Factors That Affect Turnaround Time:
- Testing Method: Instant tests provide results within minutes, while lab-based tests require sample transportation and analysis.
- Number of Panels: 5-panel tests may be processed faster than 10-panel or extended drug screens.
- Lab Processing Speed: Some labs are quick than others.
- Confirmation Testing: If a result is positive, it may require further review/testing, adding a few extra days.
- Weekends & Holidays: Non-business days can extend the processing time.
Note: For faster results, employers may opt for rapid urinalysis drug tests, while lab-confirmed tests provide the most accurate and legally defensible results.