Drug Tests

[spookie]

I'm freaking out.

 

I have an offer from an out-of-state company which is contingent upon a negative drug screening.

 

They said they'd give me "more info" about everything in early April. I assume that will include info about the drug test I have to take.

 

How long, typically, will I have to complete it?

[jerbear]

I've went through this many times.

 

The timeframes depends on the circumstances. One job, my first day was 3 months away and the drug test HAD to be completed two weeks before my start date.

 

It also depends on what kind of tests they are performing, blood, urine or hair. The urine is easy, blood is hard, and hair is just hardest as hair stores more historical biological information.

[spookie]

I've went through this many times.

 

The timeframes depends on the circumstances. One job, my first day was 3 months away and the drug test HAD to be completed two weeks before my start date.

 

It also depends on what kind of tests they are performing, blood, urine or hair. The urine is easy, blood is hard, and hair is just hardest as hair stores more historical biological information.

 

As long as I have a couple of weeks after I get the email AND it's a urine test, I should be fine.

 

I smoked last week. =(. I was at an open mic, had a story to read but I got so nervous going up there in front of dozens of people that I got completely s!ht-faced. THen someone passed me a joint and without even realizing what I was doing I took a couple of hits.

 

I've been smoking weed for so many years (since I was 13) that toking up is like second nature to me.

 

If it's a hair test I'm fcvked.

Edited March 31, 2008 by spookie

[Kamille]

Is there no subtle way to find out what kind of test it will be?

[spookie]

Is there no subtle way to find out what kind of test it will be?

 

I tried.

 

A couple of months after the offer and when I had passed another actuarial exam, I emailed asking for "more info" regarding the drug screening and the housing situation (I'm getting free room and board ) so I could "start making my plans" to relocate. They said HR would contact me in April, but what did I want to know?

 

I didn't have a good way to ask, "When and what type will the drug screen be?"

 

I guess at this point I'll find out soon enough...

[jerbear]

I tried.

 

A couple of months after the offer and when I had passed another actuarial exam, I emailed asking for "more info" regarding the drug screening and the housing situation (I'm getting free room and board ) so I could "start making my plans" to relocate. They said HR would contact me in April, but what did I want to know?

 

I didn't have a good way to ask, "When and what type will the drug screen be?"

 

I guess at this point I'll find out soon enough...

 

Actually, ask them where and when the drug tests have to be completed; so you can accelarate the process. The where can give you an idea as in home or office. The home usually means blood. Office could be blood, urine or hair.

[Kamille]

Wow, it just dawned on me that you are getting tested for an actuary job! Are drug tests standard procedure in the States?

 

 

I don't remember where in the wolrd, but I read recently that there was a legal case lately that was won after someone lost a job for drug use. Basically the defendant (the person who lost the job) claimed it was injustice since drug addiction was an illness and he was therefore being fired for an illness. His job was restituted.

 

I would file a case on the premisse that unless it impedes my work, what I do in my spare time is none of my employer's business.

[jerbear]

Wow, it just dawned on me that you are getting tested for an actuary job! Are drug tests standard procedure in the States?

 

 

I don't remember where in the wolrd, but I read recently that there was a legal case lately that was won after someone lost a job for drug use. Basically the defendant (the person who lost the job) claimed it was injustice since drug addiction was an illness and he was therefore being fired for an illness. His job was restituted.

 

I would file a case on the premisse that unless it impedes my work, what I do in my spare time is none of my employer's business.

 

Well in the States, there were cases where drug addiction can be classified as an illness but the person held the job.

 

The OP is trying to get the job which changes the conditions.

 

Drug tests are standard procedure for many jobs in the States, pretty much any public trust, fiduciary trust, or dealing with people. Many jobs are conditional based on passing the drug test. After a getting a job there is usually a trial period which the employer can still release a person without cause.

[melodymatters]

Kamille,

 

It is RIDICULOUS how many jobs require drup tests nowadays here in the states ! I mean I understand truck driver, bus drivers, medical personnell, etc, but now most GROCERY stores, home improvement stores, almost every place requires one !

 

The worst part is that pot, the most harmless of all stays in your body for 30 days whereas the " harder" drugs are out after the weekend. I actually KNOW people who would do coke and pills instead of smoking a joint because they had a drug test coming up, so imo, it's not even a good or healthy deterrent.

[SeraBella]

All drug screenings I have taken were just a few weeks before employment started.

 

I was never given a certain amount of time to complete it. It was just when I spoke with HR they made the appointment for me, or asked what days/times were good for me. They always had specific testing centers to go to, but would offer me a choice in which center was most convenient for me.

 

I've ALWAYS had a urine test. I've not heard of employers using blood or hair to test. I know they are used for drug testing, but I haven't heard of it for a pre-employment screening (but I, obviously, don't know everything).

 

The only thing I could think of to find out more information from your prospective employer if you need to find a testing facility in your area before moving. Then they would probably let you know how they handle it.

 

Wow, it just dawned on me that you are getting tested for an actuary job! Are drug tests standard procedure in the States?

 

 

I don't remember where in the wolrd, but I read recently that there was a legal case lately that was won after someone lost a job for drug use. Basically the defendant (the person who lost the job) claimed it was injustice since drug addiction was an illness and he was therefore being fired for an illness. His job was restituted.

 

I would file a case on the premisse that unless it impedes my work, what I do in my spare time is none of my employer's business.

 

What you mention here is a lot different than a drug screening for employment.

 

The situation where someone has an addiction depends on other variables besides just the addiction.

 

In the US, there is the Family and Medical Leave Act where your employer would be required to give you leave for your addiction and they cannot take any adverse actions. So, they cannot terminate you if you decide you need to rehab for your addiction, and they have to give you the time to do so.

 

However, they may have a policy against drugs with no tolerance, and they implement random drug testing. Then if an employee fails they can be terminated. Addiction or not, with the policies in place and communicated, the employee has little room to stand.

[spookie]

The worst part is that pot, the most harmless of all stays in your body for 30 days whereas the " harder" drugs are out after the weekend. I actually KNOW people who would do coke and pills instead of smoking a joint because they had a drug test coming up, so imo, it's not even a good or healthy deterrent.

 

I agree, it's completely ridiculous. In practice all it amounts to is lifestyle discrimination. You can shoot up, snort coke, whatever, but if you're a functional pothead you won't get hired.

 

I actually have done coke to avoid smoking pot. I've also taken up drinking rather heavily, which is far more unhealthy and dangerous.

 

However, they may have a policy against drugs with no tolerance, and they implement random drug testing. Then if an employee fails they can be terminated. Addiction or not, with the policies in place and communicated, the employee has little room to stand.

 

If this place has that kind of policy, I am not working there. Pre-employment screening IMO is one thing - it can make sure there is no anti-selection, that heavy users don't apply to that place just because they know it's the only one in the industry who doesn't test; plus I think it is reasonable that if you want the job enough, you get clean for as long as it takes to pass.

 

But a no tolerance policy, with random testing... I am not a child, and that strikes me as a major intrusion on my privacy.

Edited March 31, 2008 by spookie

[Adamagnet]

If you are that worried, why not just test yourself first before going? Most drugstores have home test kits.

[SeraBella]

 

If this place has that kind of policy, I am not working there. Pre-employment screening IMO is one thing - it can make sure there is no anti-selection, that heavy users don't apply to that place just because they know it's the only one in the industry who doesn't test; plus I think it is reasonable that if you want the job enough, you get clean for as long as it takes to pass.

 

But a no tolerance policy, with random testing... I am not a child, and that strikes me as a major intrusion on my privacy.

 

This should all be in the employee manual or handbook you'll receive. Perhaps you can suggest they send some of these things to you ahead of time to get the paperwork rolling? Usually you have to sign something saying you acknowledge receipt of the handbook and have read and understand, etc.

 

Since you live farther away, they will probably mail you a lot of things ahead of time, but they probably want to talk with you first and let you know what they are sending.

 

Random testing is more frequent in positions where it is illegal to operate under the influence like driving, etc. Sometimes it is required by law in those positions.

 

A lot of workplaces have no tolerance policies, but I don't think a ton of them do random testing without a reason. Afterall, each test costs them money and everyone is trying to cut down unnecessary spending. Usually they do reserve the right to and if they think someone has a problem or someone is high on the job then they may demand a drug test at that point.

 

When are you supposed to start this position? I would guess that they want you to take the test at a testing center near the office that they always use for the screenings. They usually use companies they know and trust and have a contract with. And there is less room for "cheating".

[jerbear]

I agree, it's completely ridiculous. In practice all it amounts to is lifestyle discrimination. You can shoot up, snort coke, whatever, but if you're a functional pothead you won't get hired.

 

...

 

But a no tolerance policy, with random testing... I am not a child, and that strikes me as a major intrusion on my privacy.

 

Lifestyle discrimination, free speech and many civil liberties are left at the door when one goes to work. It is a business and the business envioronment should be professional, clean, and drug free. A no tolerance policy, random testing, pre-employment screening, on going credit checks, polygraphs, etc... are part of being an employee working for a company.

 

Policies and procedures can change without advance notice and following policies and procedures is part of the job and professional.

 

Just like math, one just can't change the order of operations; there are procedures to follow to get the desired result for whatever reasons.

[spookie]

Lifestyle discrimination, free speech and many civil liberties are left at the door when one goes to work. It is a business and the business envioronment should be professional, clean, and drug free. A no tolerance policy, random testing, pre-employment screening, on going credit checks, polygraphs, etc... are part of being an employee working for a company.

 

Policies and procedures can change without advance notice and following policies and procedures is part of the job and professional.

 

Just like math, one just can't change the order of operations; there are procedures to follow to get the desired result for whatever reasons.

 

Heh, well, call me immature, but if that's the case, if I have to leave my civil liberties out the door just to be an employee, I think I'll keep stripping forever.

[spookie]

This should all be in the employee manual or handbook you'll receive. Perhaps you can suggest they send some of these things to you ahead of time to get the paperwork rolling? Usually you have to sign something saying you acknowledge receipt of the handbook and have read and understand, etc.

 

Since you live farther away, they will probably mail you a lot of things ahead of time, but they probably want to talk with you first and let you know what they are sending.

 

Random testing is more frequent in positions where it is illegal to operate under the influence like driving, etc. Sometimes it is required by law in those positions.

 

A lot of workplaces have no tolerance policies, but I don't think a ton of them do random testing without a reason. Afterall, each test costs them money and everyone is trying to cut down unnecessary spending. Usually they do reserve the right to and if they think someone has a problem or someone is high on the job then they may demand a drug test at that point.

 

When are you supposed to start this position? I would guess that they want you to take the test at a testing center near the office that they always use for the screenings. They usually use companies they know and trust and have a contract with. And there is less room for "cheating".

 

I'm supposed to start at the beginning of June. I live in Texas, the position is in Illinois; that's why I figured they'd drug test me here and wait for the results before asking me to move... but maybe not?

[jerbear]

Heh, well, call me immature, but if that's the case, if I have to leave my civil liberties out the door just to be an employee, I think I'll keep stripping forever.

 

Probably pays more too, if not more human contact.

[spookie]

Probably pays more too, if not more human contact.

 

That's a myth.

 

So many guys that come in and DON'T buy dances tell me, "I bet you make a lot, huh?" that it's annoying.

 

I make enough to compensate for what I'm doing. Not much more.

 

Actuarial work can pay s!httons.

[jerbear]

That's a myth.

 

So many guys that come in and DON'T buy dances tell me, "I bet you make a lot, huh?" that it's annoying.

 

I make enough to compensate for what I'm doing. Not much more.

 

Actuarial work can pay s!httons.

 

I know... but can be fun too!

[Art_Critic]

As an employer I know the reasons why drug testing is a good thing..

 

38-50% of all worker's compensation claims are related to the use of alcohol or drugs in the workplace of serious workplace accidents have drug or alcohol involvement.

50-80% of pilferage loss is due to employees who are users.

 

15-17% of employees in the average U.S. company affect their own workplaces through substance abuse.

 

More than 90% of alcoholics and 74% of drug addicts are employed.

 

On average, employees with inappropriate substance use cost their employers $7000 annually.

 

A Drug-Free Workplace Program creates a safer workplace, offers support for employees who have a substance abuse problem, and protects employees, customers and the public from the effects of drugs and alcohol at work. A DFWP increases a company's overall productivity while decreasing accidents and compensation claims.

 

These are the areas that testing is mandatory

PHMSA - Pipeline & Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, now extending to contractors who work on gas service lines, old or new construction.

 

FMCSA - Federal Motor Carriers Safety Administration;

 

FTA - Federal Transit Authority;

 

FAA - Federal Aviation Administration;

 

RSPA - Research and Special Programs Administration;

 

USCG - United States Coast Guard, now extending to all licensed mariners and their employees;

 

FRA - Federal Railroad Administration;

 

DOT - Departments of Transportation, now extended to all CDL operators.

 

Personally I feel that if you knew about the test and you took the drugs anyway then I would believe that you are sabatoging your chances for employment and you ought to look into that...

 

It seems to me that you really don't want the job.. Is there a reason ?

[Trimmer]

I agree, it's completely ridiculous. In practice all it amounts to is lifestyle discrimination. You can shoot up, snort coke, whatever, but if you're a functional pothead you won't get hired.

You're more intelligent than that. They aren't discrimiating between different drugs, they are trying to discriminate (in the sense of "separate") between drug users and non-drug-users. Besides, they aren't being duplicitous, are they? Does this not communicate clearly to you that they don't want drug users employed there?

 

I actually have done coke to avoid smoking pot. I've also taken up drinking rather heavily, which is far more unhealthy and dangerous.

This sounds an awful lot like "those bad guys who wouldn't let me smoke pot, they made me do coke and drink alcohol..." You always had the choice to not use. Nobody made you.

 

If this place has that kind of policy, I am not working there. Pre-employment screening IMO is one thing - it can make sure there is no anti-selection, that heavy users don't apply to that place just because they know it's the only one in the industry who doesn't test; plus I think it is reasonable that if you want the job enough, you get clean for as long as it takes to pass.

 

But a no tolerance policy, with random testing... I am not a child, and that strikes me as a major intrusion on my privacy.

I know that's the effect of a pre-employment drug screen, but do you really think that the point of this whole exercise is just to "see if you can get clean for long enough," and then no one cares if you go back to using after you are employed?

 

Here's my concern: You've said that you "needed" the stripping job because it was the only thing lucrative enough to make enough money to cover your expenses. And then you "needed" to get wasted to get through the stripping. And now, you're doing the coke, because you think that's "safer" than the alcohol, which must means it's a good thing right?

 

And all along you don't think you're an addict, but look at what you are doing to your life and your opportunities... You have a job lined up in the field you are targeting, and you are near to sabotaging it both with your actions - "accidentally" smoking up when you knew all along you'd have a drug test coming up - and by your attitude "well, if they have a childish attitude about drug testing, then I'm not going to work there."

 

In another thread - notably in the Addiction and Recovery forum - you were asking for a reality check on your drug use, and the topic of whether you were actually addicted was discussed. Again, whether by your actions or your attitudes, you are close to throwing away a real, live opportunity to move forward in your life, essentially because you insist on continuing to use drugs. I'll admit that I'm not an expert, or even experienced in such matters, but doesn't that sound like something an addict would do?

[Carpetrider]

Simple solution to this. Don't do drugs. Only weak people need to do drugs. It is a crutch. I guess you are weak?

[mark982]

there seems to be a liberal thought trend here towards drug use. if you don't use you have no worries! i've seen some really good jobs disappear cause of friends drug use.

[Kenyth]

Simple solution to this. Don't do drugs. Only weak people need to do drugs. It is a crutch. I guess you are weak?

 

Thank you! A little rough maybe, but spot on. You want to be successful, you have to act successful. Leave the immature habits behind along with the pole. You sound intelligent and I'm guessing you're also attractive. Why not use your gifts and start a new, successful life free from the things that hold you back?

 

Whatever you do, give up the night job and the vices that follow it. Places like that are downhill rides.

[PuppyDogEyes]

Are drug tests standard procedure in the States?

 

Yes, they are. I've never applied for a job - of any kind - without having to take one. It doesn't matter what kind of industry, either - even if you apply to be a checker in a Safeway supermarket, a drug screening is part of the process.

 

I would file a case on the premisse that unless it impedes my work, what I do in my spare time is none of my employer's business.

 

One could do that, but then the employer would simply say that what an employee does outside of work (in this case, use drugs) has the potential to cause problems while on the clock. (Example: Employee tokes up 2 hours before they clock in - while they're technically not using drugs on the premises, the aftereffects of the marijuana are still present and could have an impact on said employer's business.) The law being what it is, there's less than zero chance of the employee winning.

 

I've never had drug tests involving blood or hair samples, however, it's always been urinalysis.