The FAQs of Drug Testing
Employers can take many measures in protecting themselves against drug testing related lawsuits filed by their employees. Here are a few basic guidelines to consider, which you can discuss with our occupational therapy professionals at any of our Healthpointe clinics, such as our Garden Grove clinic near Stanton, Santa Ana, and Westminster.
- Whom to test
You must remember two things when determining whom to test for drug use. First, avoid testing all employees for drugs because these will cast a wide net. Second, avoid random drug testing as you can be liable for discriminatory practices.
You can decrease your risks for lawsuits by performing drug tests in two instances. First, present a particular reason for suspecting an employee of illicit drug use. Second, identify employees with jobs that carry high risks for accidents and injuries in case of illicit drug use.
- When to test
Your company will significantly reduce its risks for lawsuits when your primary motive in carrying out drug tests is to ensure the safety of employees, customers, and the general public. You will likely withstand legal scrutiny when limiting drug tests to:
- Employees with high-risk jobs in relation to safety and security, such as forklift operators, pilots, and security guards;
- Employees who have already been involved in accidents especially when others have been adversely affected;
- Employees who are enrolled in or have completed a drug rehab program; and
- Employees who are reasonably suspected by their managers/supervisors as using illicit drugs.
You must thoroughly discuss the employees that will be required to undergo drug testing.
- How to test
Avoid carrying out drug testing on your own. You should protect yourself against lawsuits by using a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services-certified testing lab. You can also consult your lawyer about the matter. You must also have a written policy for drug use and testing in the workplace and make sure that every employee is aware of it.
Ask us now about the best way to go about drug testing!
We have the best occupational therapists in California, with over ten clinics (such as our La Mirada clinic near Whittier, La Habra, Norwalk, Cerritos, Buena Park, and Santa Fe Springs). Learn more about drug testing by visiting today!
About Healthpointe:
Healthpointe is a leading multidisciplinary healthcare organization offering a full range of medical services in practice locations throughout Southern California (Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Bernardino County, and Riverside County). Healthpointe has locations situated in over 10 cities in Southern California including La Mirada, which is conveniently located by Whittier, La Habra, Norwalk, Cerritos, Buena Park, and Santa Fe Springs. As a highly regarded musculoskeletal group, we have a personal investment in the highest level of service, and we are proud of our record of excellence over the last four decades with private patients, injured workers, urgent care, personal injuries, and professional and non-professional athletes. Leading our organization is a dynamic team of healthcare professionals who continually strive to be at the forefront of medical innovation and healthcare service delivery. For more information, a complete list of services, and Healthpointe locations, visit Healthpointe.net.