The Rising Trend of Oral Drug Testing

Oral drug testing is gaining momentum and is becoming a subject of considerable discussion, particularly in the context of increasing THC usage. While urine drug testing has historically been the predominant approach, the shifting preferences are notably due to the numerous advantages offered by oral drug tests. This method stands out due to its convenience in the collection and robust safeguards against tampering, setting it on a path to becoming the preferred testing method in pre-employment and ongoing drug screening.

Convenience in Sample Collection

Regarded as one of the simplest collection methods, oral drug screening is seen as less intrusive and does not evoke the discomfort associated with urine testing. Unlike its counterpart, which poses several challenges like shy bladder, oral testing’s only known inconvenience is the rare occurrence of dry mouth.

Cheating Safeguards

Fully supervised oral testing renders cheating nearly impossible, maintaining the integrity of the specimen at all times. The difficulty in adulterating oral fluid samples further enhances its reliability, making it the perfect choice for maintaining the fidelity of drug tests.

Advantageous for THC Testing

As the legality and usage of THC see an uptrend, employers are on the lookout for testing methods aligning with state laws. Oral tests are pivotal in assessing impairment levels rather than just detecting the presence of THC. This approach ensures workplace safety while respecting the recreational choices of employees during their personal time.

DOT’s Acceptance of Oral Testing

A past limitation of oral drug testing was its non-acceptance as a DOT-approved method. However, this barrier has recently been lifted, paving the way for its implementation in DOT employee testing. It’s anticipated that by 2024, two labs will receive DOT approval for oral testing, allowing companies under DOT regulations to transition from urine to oral testing for their drivers.

Lab Confirmation vs. In-House Testing

For legal solidity in the face of disputes, lab confirmation is strongly advocated. Well-regulated lab tests are more reliable compared to in-house tests, which, despite being quicker, often register false positives due to their higher testing range. Notably, labs do not acknowledge in-house tests for positive confirmations. They employ specialized kits designed for their equipment. To ease the process and assure accuracy, partnering with a testing company aligned with a lab is highly beneficial.

 

If you’re seeking a proficient testing company aligned with a lab, we’re here to assist! Connecting with a lab-partnered testing company not only simplifies the procedure but also ensures your organization upholds the requisite accuracy standards. We also provide background checks and other pre-employment screening services. Contact us to learn more.