Last updated: April 15, 2024
A 10 panel drug test is often administered by Atlanta employers in any job that involves dangerous work, such as manufacturing, or where the employee is responsible for the safety of others, such as transportation. It is also frequently used to ensure that terms of probation are met.
Why drug test?
Drug use, even off duty, negatively impacts employers through reduced productivity, increased absenteeism, workplace theft, lower moral, increased accidents, and higher workers comp costs.
But drug testing can reduce or eliminate those problems. Pre employment drug testing can help reduce the risk of hiring employees with substance abuse problems in the first place, and random drug testing can help discourage drug use by current employees.
What does a 10 panel drug test include?
This type of drug test is designed to be a comprehensive screen for commonly abused drugs. Although there isn’t a universal definition, a standard 10 panel drug test usually tests for:
- cocaine
- marijuana
- PCP
- amphetamines
- opiates
- benzodiazepines
- barbiturates
- methadone
- propoxyphene
- Quaaludes
How is a 10 panel drug test conducted?
When an employee has been selected to be tested, they must immediately go to the collection site to provide a sample. Since all time spent taking an employer-mandated drug test is considered working hours under the Fair Labor Standards Act, employees must be paid for that time. USAMDT can set up a collection site either at your location, like a job site, manufacturing plant, or office, or any location of your choice, so there is minimal downtime and employees don’t have the opportunity to cheat the test.
We create a computer-generated selection pool to prevent tampering or “favors” that might help employees avoid testing.
A 10 panel drug test can be conducted using any recognized testing method, including urinalysis, saliva, or hair. A urinalysis requires a secured, private bathroom, while a saliva or hair drug test can be conducted anywhere.
Who can see the results of a 10 panel drug test?
Drug test results are considered private health information, so whether and how the information can be shared with others is restricted. This is why employers need a release form signed by employees prior to drug testing. More information about these restrictions can be found on the HIPAA Web site or by contacting your USAMDT representative.