Random Drug Testing: The Silent Enforcer of Workplace Integrity
By Alison Adduono, Director of Marketing
There are a number of occasions whereby one must conduct employee drug screening. According to SAMHSA the most common scenarios are:
- Pre-employment
- Reasonable suspicion
- Annual exams
- Post-accident
- Post-treatment
- Random
Random drug testing, as with the other circumstances, is supported by the National Safety Council (NSC) as part of an employer’s drug-free workplace program.
But with all of those reasons perhaps random drug testing is the most effective for deterring illicit drug use if for the only reason that the selection process and schedule is so unpredictable.
Reasons to Conduct Random Drug Testing
- Substance Abuse Deterrence: The unpredictability and element of surprise of random drug testing can actually discourage employees from using drugs as they could be tested at any time.
- Maintain Productivity: Substance abuse can lead to absenteeism and reduced productivity.
- Compliance with Regulations: Several industries are legally required to conduct routine employee drug screenings.
- Ensures Workplace Safety: Help ensure a safer workplace environment and protect employees from potential harm by reducing the number of drug-related incidents/accidents that can occur when individuals are impaired.
- Boost Employee Morale: When employees are all subject to the same rules and drug test policies it builds trust among the employees by ensuring that no-one receives special treatment and shows them that you are committed to providing a safe and healthy workplace.
Random Drug Testing Procedures
Of course, anytime an employer wants to conduct random testing, it is best to make the process as impartial as possible. Whether you use a Third-Party Administrator to handle the process or a software program — not being the one responsible for selecting the individual(s) is key.
Discretion is also paramount. Confidentiality must be maintained by the individuals with access to the random list to ensure the element of surprise. You don’t want to give anyone advance notice of the random test. Once the employee has been selected, they should be notified discreetly and according to your company protocols.
The time between the notification and test time should be limited. In fact, it is recommended that the time allotted should be just long enough for the employee to get from the business to the testing site. In the case of DOT they must proceed immediately to the testing facility. An unexcused late arrival may even be deemed a refusal to test. Limiting the time to complete the test will make it harder for the employee to subvert or tamper with the test.
In the event the pulled employee is unavailable for a legitimate reason (i.e. vacation, time off, extended illness, etc.) then it should be documented and depending on the policies/regulations that apply to the business an alternate may be selected.
Random testing can be very specific. Make sure to refer to any federal, state, local and industry regulations (i.e. DOT drug testing guidelines) that may apply to ensure you are conducting testing according to those requirements.
Benefits of the Origin.One Randomizer
As a Third-Party Administrator, Origin deals with a lot of random requests and understands the importance of the process. We therefore have developed an automatic randomizer within our Origin.One platform that will enable users to pull their own lists whether for their own workplaces or for their clients. Here are some of the benefits of that solution:
- Self-Service: Whether you’re an employer or a Third-Party Administrator servicing a client there is no need to wait for a list to be prepared for you and you don’t need to waste hours working on it either. Access your random list ANYTIME you want whether it is on the weekend, late at night or on holidays. The randomizer application is available to you 24 hours a day.
- Ease of Use: Simply upload your list of employees (via excel) and indicate the percentage/# of randoms required and the app will generate your random list.
- Auto Scheduling: The application even allows for drug tests to be scheduled through our nationwide clinic network.
The Origin.One platform is not a one trick pony. In addition to a randomizer, it offers a wide selection of resources at the tip of your fingertips from scheduling drug tests and other services such as physicals, etc. to wellness care, ordering test supplies, and so much more. Interested in seeing a demo? Contact us at orders@origin.net.
