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).

Medical marijuana laws vary by state and it’s important that employers address the specific laws that pertain to their company and employees when creating a drug testing policy. Each state has its own system of medical marijuana laws, which may or may not include bills that provide explicit employment protections. For example, in California, legislation allows employers the right to terminate an employee who tests positive for marijuana, even if they hold a medical marijuana card. For example: Imagine you have an employee who lives in Arizona but works in California, and the employee has a medical marijuana card in which they use in private. Arizona protects employees from discrimination while holding a medical marijuana card, but in California, an employer may fire employees who test positive for marijuana, even if the use was off-duty and for a medical condition with a valid medical marijuana card. To avoid litigation in this scenario, it would be advisable to treat this employee based on Arizona laws.

It is pertinent for you, as an employer, to have a policy in place for when this occurs and to follow each states' medical marijuana laws accordingly.

Drug and Alcohol Testing related

Is alcohol detected in urine drug test?

Depending on industry requirements, employers can choose to screen for alcohol in their drug testing panel. Alcohol use can be detected in a urinalysis between 12-48 hours after consuming.

DISA's industry-leading vendor partners, combined with an extensive range of drug testing methodologies set our standards higher for customers. Our drug testing solutions offer expanded service offerings, cutting-edge technology, and a single-source solution for all your drug testing needs. By implementing a drug testing program with DISA, you'll find:

  1. Reduced employee healthcare costs
  2. Improvements in employee morale, productivity, and performance
  3. Decreased absenteeism, accidents, downtime, turnover, and theft
  4. Compliance with state or federal regulations
  5. Being able to identify and refer employees who have drug and/or alcohol problems
  6. Providing a safe workplace for employees