Answer

Can I hire someone with an invalid result?

An invalid test result is acceptable except in the following cases:

  • The employer needs a negative test result (DOT and Consortium Pre-Employment, Return-to-Duty)
  • The MRO has instructed a recollection and/or medical evaluation

Return-to-Duty and SAP referrals are relevant to non-negative results so, if an employee is restricted due to an invalid test result that employee should not be subject to an RTD program (unless the client’s corporate policy indicates otherwise).

A recent case involving a major retail chain fired an Arizona employee for testing positive for marijuana despite the fact that they possessed a medical marijuana card and disclosed that information prior to taking a urinalysis. The company claimed that they were protected under the state’s Drug Testing of Employees Act, but the judge ruled that the company couldn’t prove if the employee was impaired at work. It’s advisable that employers do not terminate Arizona employees who hold a valid medical marijuana card based solely off of a positive marijuana drug test result. Companies’ should ensure that they provide employee education and reasonable suspicion training for managers, implement a medical disclosure policy, and establish a documentation process. If a terminated employee later sues for wrongful termination, this documentation and an established process, could be a deciding factor in your case.

Drug and Alcohol Testing related

What is the expiration date of an oral fluid test?

Our preferred vendor partner, Orasure, utilizes the Intercept oral fluid collection device, which expires 24 months from the date of manufacture. So typically, they may have an 18-20-month date when received.

There is no test for CBD, DISA’s tests will screen for THC or cannabinoids. Any test that screens for THC or cannabinoids is going to report findings for THC or cannabinoids that exceed the panel thresholds (levels). The origin of the substance will not be considered by the Medical Review Officer (MRO). DISA’s non-DOT corporate policy offers clients the option to customize testing panels.