Drug Tests: What You Need to Know

ARCpoint Labs of Bellingham has access to various drug tests, including those outlined above. The tests we offer can be customized to fit the specific panel of drugs that need to be tested for.

How Are Drug Tests Usually Done?

While urinalysis is the most used and accepted form of detecting drugs in an individual, it’s not the only one.

Drug tests can be done from a small sample of:

• Urine
• Saliva
• Nails
• Hair
• Blood

How Long Will Drugs Show Up in a Drug Test?

The detection period depends on the type of drug used and the sample collected.

Some of the commonly used illicit drugs and their detection periods include:

• Marijuana – Seven to 30 days in urine and up to two weeks in blood.
• Amphetamine – One to three days in urine and 12 hours in blood.
• Opioids – It can depend on the specific opioid consumed. Around two to seven days in urine and up to 12 hours in blood.

Hair drug tests have the longest detection period, typically able to detect drug use for up to 90 days! Whether or not a hair drug test can be done depends on the drugs that are being looked for and the length of the individual’s hair.

When is Drug Testing Needed?

Drug testing is commonly used to inform an employer, individual, court, or some other organization of an individual’s drug use. At ARCpoint Labs of Bellingham, we work with a number of different management teams and individuals, helping execute drug testing whenever needed.

A drug test can be requested in a number of different scenarios:

Random Drug Testing

Random drug testing is most commonly conducted by workplaces looking to ensure a safe and drug-free work environment for their employees and customers. It’s a common way to deter drug use evenly and fairly across the board, without the need to single out specific employees.

An easy way for employees to ensure the testing is as random as possible is by using computer-generated programs to choose employees for testing regularly. Additionally, an outside partner, such as ARCpoint Labs of Bellingham, can be used to help in conducting the tests at no extra cost to the employee.

Pre-Employee Screening

Before being hired, you may be asked to complete a pre-employment drug test. There’s no need to feel singled out – more than one percent of jobs offered throughout Seattle and nearby cities in Washington require a pre-employment drug test.

Pre-employment drug tests can also be used for those returning to work after a prolonged absence, injury, or accident.

On Reasonable Suspicion

Pretty much any employer can ask an employee to perform a drug test if reasonable suspicion is had.

Reasonable suspicion to require a drug test includes:

• Bloodshot eyes
• Shakes and tremors
• Slurred speech
• Attendance problems
• Decline in performance
• Accidents on the job
• Unexplained changes in personality
• Sudden mood swings and outbursts

Any of these signs should be reported to management and recorded. Two or more observations from others in the organization will create reasonable suspicion for drug testing to be justified.

Court-Mandated Drug Testing

Drug and alcohol testing has become commonplace in the courts and can heavily influence the outcome of legal proceedings.

Court-mandated drug testing is often the result of:

• DUI/DWI – A DUI or DWI arrest will require a court-ordered drug and alcohol test.
• Child Placement – Child protective agencies will often require a drug test before a child is placed in the home.
• Probation – Testing may be needed in accordance with federal or county probation laws.

Of course, these are just a few examples – judges can order drug testing for many reasons.

Parenting Disputes

Many custody cases are decided on drug use since no one wants their children in an unsafe environment. When undergoing a custody battle, a parent may be ordered to take a drug test by the court if there is reason to believe that person uses drugs. Once ordered, the individual must complete the test within a certain amount of time so the court can make an informed decision.

Prescription Drug & Addiction Treatment Management

If your provider has prescribed you a prescription that is known to be addictive or is commonly misused, your provider may require you to complete routine drug tests to ensure the medicine is being used correctly.

On the other hand, rehab centers and other addiction center treatments will also conduct drug testing, helping individuals stay accountable and ensure drugs are no longer being used.

Searching for Drug Testing Solutions in Bellingham? ARCpoint Labs is Here.

As you can imagine, drug testing can greatly deter the use of drugs. If you’re looking for a way to introduce drug testing into your workplace, you’ve come to the right place. At ARCpoint Labs of Bellingham, we offer a wide range of services to help you create the best drug testing program for your company’s needs.

At ARCpoint Labs of Bellingham, we provide:

• Walk-in and scheduled testing appointments
• Drug tests that can detect a wide range of substances
• Testing services that are fast, accurate, and court-admissible
• Concierge services to help you find the testing you need

We can even train your staff on any new drug-testing policies, providing them the proper guidance needed in dealing with questions, concerns, and more brought on by employees. But have no fear- we’ll handle the testing to ensure it’s accurate and quick.

Give ARCpoint Labs of Bellingham a call at (360) 873-5075 to learn more about our extensive drug and alcohol testing services or to schedule your testing appointment!