New Psychoactive Substances: The Evolution of Drug Testing
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David J. Kuntz PhD, F-ABFT
Executive Director - Toxicology Analytical
CRL/FormFox
New Psychoactive Substances: The Evolution of Drug Testing
New substances are reshaping workplace risk. This session surveys fentanyl, 7-OH, nitazenes, and other emerging threats. It covers screening impacts across hiring, random, post-incident, and return-to-duty testing. It highlights panel design, confirmation options, and policy alignment for safety-sensitive roles.
Key Learnings:
- Overview of emerging opioids and synthetics affecting screening. Fentanyl analogs, 7-OH, nitazenes, and poly-drug trends.
- Testing approach and matrix drive detection. Sensitivity, confirmation steps, cutoff rationale, and panel update planning.
- Program implications for HR and Safety. Risk signals, random and post-incident focus, safety-sensitive prioritization, policy and MRO coordination.