What Does
Random Drug Test Mean?
A random drug test is an examination or technical analysis of biological specimens of any person. Generally, when there is reason to believe that a drug is possibly being abused by that person discovered by observing his or her behavior or involvement in an accident at work, a random drug test is administered. Such tests include detecting the presence and level of drugs or their metabolites in the body of the person at work, operating machines, driving, meeting an accident, or committing an offence in the workplace or in public places.
Safeopedia Explains Random Drug Test
Companies usually randomly test employees for compliance with its drug-free work environment policy. A random drug test is effective in preventing accidents, poor health of employees, absenteeism, healthcare costs and litigation, etc.. It is directed to protect employees, reduce costs, and improve productivity and workers’ welfare. It is a method of selection of employees in an equal probability from a target group of employees. However, employers should be careful in observation of the following guidelines while taking a random drug test:
- Have a written company policy
- Mention random drug testing procedures and policies in the employee contracts
- A notice should be published prior to sample collection
- Samples must be randomly taken without discrimination
- Limit testing to only employees that need to be tested
- No harassment is done to any employee
- Selection is justified by the nature of the job
- The applicant must consent to give a sample; if he or she refuses, warn to the fact that he or she may face disciplinary consequences