frequently asked questions (FAQ's)

why drug test?
When considering a drug testing program, the first question to ask is, "Am I required to drug test some of all of my employees?" If not, then ask, "Are there other reasons I should consider drug testing?" Below are some of the most frequently given reasons employers give for having a drug testing program:

To comply with federal regulations, e.g., The Department of Transportation, Department of Defense, Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and Department of Energy.

To comply with customer or contract requirements.

To comply with insurance carrier requirements

To match other employer efforts, and to minimize the chance of hiring employees who may be users or abusers.

To reinforce the company position on "no drug use."

To identify current users and abusers and refer them for assistance.

To establish grounds for discipline or firing.

To improve safety.

To convince "casual users" that the cost of using is too high.

To deter "recreational" drug us that could lead to addiction.

To reduce the costs of alcohol and other drug abuse in the workplace.

To give recovering users another reason to stay sober (relapse prevention).

what types of drug tests are available?
There are several types; blood, hair follicle, saliva, urine and sweat.

which is more accurate?
It depends on the level of testing that is required. If the test results are needed for court or legal litigation, we recommend a certified lab test, whether it be hair follicle or urine test.

which is better- blood or urine tests?
It depends on the convenience factor. For blood testing you need needles and a professional, for urine tests you need a certified technician.

regarding verification and accuracy, how is the collection conducted?
We follow our collection policy closely. We verify donor's identification by photo I.D., and have them remove coats, jackets, or purses.

how long does marijuana stay in the body?
Depends on the frequency and amounts and potency of the drug that the user ingests.

what drug stays in the body the longest?
THC. It blends with the fat cells.

what are the signs of a person using Marijuana?
Altered perceptions, red eyes, dry mouth, reduced concentration and coordination, euphoria, panic reaction, impaired and short-term memory.

my teenage child may be using Methamphetamines. How can I be sure?
Look for these physical signs: Alertness, talkativeness, increased blood pressure, loss of appetite, wakefulness, loss of weight, mood elevation, irritability, hyperactivity, fatigue, exhaustion, aggressiveness, severe anxiety, paranoia, and/or depression.

how far back does a hair follicle test?
Up to 3 months.

if I took a couple of hits of marijuana 1 month ago, will it show up on a hair test?
Most likely it won't show up because the person would have to be a frequent or chronic user and by that we mean smoking daily for about a year or more.