Drug test

Drug testing refers to the procedural analysis of biological samples, acquired from an individual, to determine the presence or absence of specific drugs or their metabolites. The utility and efficacy of drug tests have been the subject of much debate, predominantly concerning the issues of privacy, accuracy, and ethical implications.

The NIDA 5

The NIDA 5 represents a set of five specific drugs or drug categories that are commonly tested. Initially established by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, the five categories are:

• Marijuana (THC)
• Cocaine (COC)
• Opiates (OPI)
• Amphetamines (AMP)
• Phencyclidine (PCP)

Detection periods

The detection period of drugs depends on several factors including the type of drug, the frequency of usage, metabolic rate, and the type of test used. For instance:

• Urine tests might detect marijuana usage within the past week.
• Hair tests can detect drug use for up to 90 days.
• Saliva tests generally detect drugs used within the past day or two.

Common types of drug tests

Urine drug screen

The most common method due to its non-invasiveness, affordability, and relatively long detection period. It can identify drug use over the past days to weeks.

Hair drug screen

Provides a much longer window for detecting drug use, as drugs remain in hair follicles for up to 90 days. However, it might not detect recent drug use within the last week.

Saliva drug screen / Oral fluid-based drug screen

It detects drugs used recently, typically within the last 24-48 hours. It's a non-invasive method, often used in roadside tests for driving under the influence.

Sweat drug screen

A less common method where sweat patches are applied to the skin for an extended period, collecting sweat for analysis. Useful for continuous monitoring.

Drug testing methodologies

There are various methodologies employed in drug testing, including immunoassays, chromatographic techniques, and mass spectrometry. Each offers different levels of sensitivity and specificity.

Types of testing

Pre-employment drug testing

Conducted before hiring an applicant. This test ensures the new employee is free from illicit drugs.

Random drug testing

Unscheduled tests that can be given without any advanced notice to employees. This type of testing is essential for safety-sensitive jobs.

Post-incident drug testing

Conducted after an accident or safety violation at the workplace to determine if drugs played a role.

Legality and Ethics of Mandatory Drugs Testing

United Kingdom

In the UK, employers can't force employees to take a drug test, but if an employee refuses, they might face disciplinary action. For safety-critical occupations, routine drug testing is more common.

See also

• Substance abuse
• Employee rights
• Medical privacy

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