Landing your dream job is an exciting time. However, most employers require pre-employment drug tests and physical exams as part of the hiring process.
These screenings evaluate an applicant’s health status and ability to perform essential job duties safely without impairment. They also help protect employers from certain legal issues.
While these screenings may feel invasive, it’s important to understand why employers require them. Providing a safe work environment and preventing workplace accidents from substance abuse or undisclosed medical conditions are top priorities. As such, passing a drug test and physical is standard for many industries. Understanding what to expect can reduce anxiety and allow focus on qualifications.
This blog will explore the typical steps in a pre-employment drug test and physical exam.
The Pre-Employment Drug Test
One of the first things that will likely happen as part of your hiring process is a pre-employment drug screening. Drug testing policies vary by employer and industry, but here are some common aspects of the drug testing process:
1. Notification
You will be notified upfront by the potential employer that passing a drug test is a condition of employment. Make sure to review the employer’s drug testing policy.
2. Sample Collection
Drug samples are usually collected at an independent collection facility. The most common sample type is urine, though occasionally saliva, blood, or hair samples may be required instead.
3. Testing Methods
Standard testing panels check for drugs like marijuana, cocaine, opiates, PCP, amphetamines, and methamphetamines. Testing methods include initial immunoassay screening followed by confirmatory GC/MS testing for non-negative results.
4. Chain of Custody
Strict chain of custody protocols are followed to maintain sample integrity from collection through result reporting. Samples are labeled and stored securely throughout the testing process.
5. Medical Review
If initial screening results are positive, the sample undergoes confirmatory testing. A medical review officer then reviews all results and may contact you regarding prescriptions or medical explanations for any positive results.
6. Substance Detection Periods
How long substances remain detectable varies by drug and testing method. For instance, marijuana can be detected in urine for up to 30 days, while cocaine is usually only detectable for 2-4 days.
7. Notification of Results
Employers will typically be informed of negative results but may require your consent to receive any positive results and explanations from the medical review.
The Pre-Employment Physical Exam
In addition to drug screening, many positions also require the completion of a pre-employment physical exam to ensure you can perform job duties safely without any restrictions. Here’s what to expect from a typical pre-employment physical:
1. Medical History Questionnaire
You will complete forms detailing your health history, prior injuries/illnesses/surgeries, and current medications.
2. Physical Exam
This can include things like vital signs, listening to your heart/lungs, checking reflexes, range of motion tests, and reviewing any prior medical records you provide.
3. Vision/Hearing Tests
For safety-sensitive roles, tests are administered to ensure proper vision and hearing ability based on job requirements. Simple sight/hearing tests are common.
4. Drug Test
As mentioned above, the physical exam often involves the collection of samples for the standard 5- or 10-panel drug screening as well.
5. Medical Clearance
Upon completion, the examining doctor will decide if you are medically cleared or have any activity restrictions based on their findings and your self-reported history. They may request follow-ups.
6. Additional Tests
Sometimes, additional assessments like functional capacity tests, EKGs, or X-rays are ordered depending on job duties and individual exam findings.
Preparing for Your Pre-Employment Evaluations
To feel at ease and ensure the smoothest process for both your drug screening and forthcoming job, make sure to:
- Review the company’s pre-employment policies and any forms/documents requiring completion ahead of time
- Arrange test appointments and be available/present on scheduled dates
- Get sufficient rest and hydration prior – both exams evaluate you at your normal best
- Make a note of any medications (prescribed or otherwise), supplements, or medical conditions/prior injuries for disclosure
- Bring appropriate identification and any requested medical record documents
- Let the job offer know if you have any test date conflicts requiring rescheduling
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Passing a pre-employment physical and drug screening is an important part of most hiring processes. These evaluations may feel like a privacy misuse, but employers use them to ensure a safe, productive workforce.
Remember – your health and safety, along with that of potential coworkers, is the top priority during these pre-hire clearances. With transparency and planning, the process will go smoothly, allowing you to start your next exciting chapter.
