Most employers need to hire competent people, especially high professionals such as human resource professionals and managers. One of the best tactics is the 9-panel drug test, especially for top professionals who are not obligated to follow the DOT regulation. The 9-panel drug test helps identify nine of the most commonly abused drugs that might alter the functionality of most workers. Employers should often incorporate Nashville tn pre-employment drug testing to ensure accurate drug results from the candidates.
Some drug tests in the 9-panel drug test include methadone, cocaine, marijuana (THC), amphetamines, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, oxycodone, phencyclidine, and oxymorphone. This test is more comprehensive than the standard 5-panel drug test and DOT drug testing required by the Department of Transportation. The advantage of this testing mode is that it is comprehensive, cost-effective, and detects the most commonly abused drugs. This blog explores everything you need to know about 9-panel drug tests.
Testing Methods
The 9 panel drug testing does not use the DOT drug testing method; instead, it’s a non-DOT method often applied in a working environment. This makes any other testing method acceptable such as Urine, hair follicle, and mouth swab drug test.
When using any of the above methods and a test gives a positive result, it indicates drug use, while a negative result will indicate no drug use within the detection window. However, you can get an inconclusive result, meaning no drug use could be determined. Unless there is a regulation, you are always free to choose the best method.
The Pros and Cons of Each Method
- Hair Follicle Drug Test
Most employers prefer the hair follicle drug test, and the DOT plans to begin using it to test rather than the urine test. This method has a 90 days window regardless of the drug tested. It’s liked since it’s the least intrusive method for a drug test. You must snip close to the scalp to collect a sample of 120 hairs. The hair will be sealed and delivered to a lab for evaluation. The lab technician will cut its length to one and a half inches, and you will get your result within a week.
- Urine Test
One of the easiest and most effective methods is the urine test. This makes it one of the most loved methods by employers who consider pre-employment testing. It’s crucial to note that if the DOT regulates employers, they will only use this method.
The employee will visit the testing site, where they will be guided on the amount of urine required. The technician will measure the temperature of the urine to ensure its in the proper range. If the immunoassay test is positive, a second test will be done. Gas chromatography /mass spectrometry will follow this to determine which drug was detected. The result Might come up after a few days.
- Mouth Swab Drug Test
The mouth swab is commonly used to test drug abuse within 72 hours. The advantage of mouth swabs is that you get the result faster than in urine and hair follicle drug tests. Some of the drugs include marijuana and alcohol.
End Note
The above are things you need to know about 9 panel drug test. When testing these drugs, look for the most applicable method for each drug tested.
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