Instant Drug Testing—the Substance Screening Answer During COVID-19?

Drug testing has become a fraught topic for employers, with legal changes and societal attitude shifts complicating existing efforts. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has only raised the safety stakes and made drug testing more confusing.

Experts have predicted that the coronavirus crisis—with its health fears, financial uncertainty, and social isolation all rolled together—would lead to increases in substance abuse problems across the country. Although limited information is yet available regarding coronavirus-driven addiction, some initial data is cause for concern. In a recent survey, for example, 33% of respondents said they were drinking more since the pandemic struck, with 50% of them specifically citing stress and anxiety as a cause.

COVID-related substance abuse is a human tragedy and one that poses new problems for employers. Many organizations are looking for ways to safeguard the workplace and identify individuals who may need help, without adding to the pressures employees are already feeling at such a precarious time.

Against this backdrop, instant drug testing can play an important role, when combined with appropriate policies, manager training in substance abuse intervention, negotiation of health insurance coverage for recovery programs, and various other measures.

Instant drug testing products offer employers all the benefits of lab-based testing, including enhanced employee safety and productivity. But because instant drug testing is conducted on site and results are available right away, it delivers some additional advantages that resonate during COVID-19:

• Reducing “the ask” of candidates. Drug testing, as important as it is for workplace safety, can be perceived as invasive by some people. Fortunately, instant drug testing, when implemented correctly, makes quick work of the whole process, so it's less burdensome for candidates and employees and doesn't feel like a huge request.
• Minimizing stress with an immediate “all clear.” Let’s face it, even a conscientious, drug-free employee can fear that a drug test may return a false positive and lead to job problems. Getting the test over with and sharing results ASAP cuts a potentially stressful experience from days down to minutes.
• Eliminating the lab visit. Going to a separate lab facility may be an unwelcome request for some people in the present environment. Enabling testing in the workplace they already frequent can be an important factor for many employees, particularly those who are adhering to tight social distancing requirements because they or a loved one is at high risk if they contract COVID-19.
• Empowering rapid-action response. An immediate result, when positive for drugs or alcohol, positions the organization to address safety implications without delay, such as by removing an employee from certain assignments. Instant drug testing can also benefit the individual by allowing appropriate intervention to be conducted straightaway.

Of course, employers must balance many considerations when implementing or updating a drug testing program. Compliance demands may not permit the use of instant drug testing products in cases. The organization will want to designate and train staff to conduct the testing. And basic facilities are required.

Don't let the multitude of drug testing choices and the complexities of program design get you down. Asurint is deeply familiar with drug testing, and we stand ready to put you in touch with our experts. They can help you review your options and arrive at the safety-conscious, employee-sensitive drug testing solution you’ve been seeking. Just contact us anytime at 800.906.2035 to talk it out.