Quest Diagnostics is the nation’s leading provider of diagnostic testing, information, and services.
They perform over 8.5 million drug tests each year. The company offers the broadest access to diagnostic
testing services through its national network of laboratories, 6000 collection sites, 4000 couriers, and
fleet of transportation aircraft. The March 17 issue of FORTUNE Magazine listed Quest Diagnostics to
its 2008 list of America's Most Admired Companies. It was ranked third among four companies in the
"Health Care" category of "pharmacy and other services." 2008 marks the first year the company has
been named to the list and designates them as the only diagnostic testing company on the list -
a testament to their industry leadership and reputation.
This type of permissible drug screening involves randomly selecting and testing a group of employees at
scheduled times. It is the drug screen that most prohibits drug abuse within the workplace. Controversial,
it is recommended that an employer check with their state laws prior to conducting such a drug screening
program. It differs from Periodic testing in that it is unannounced.
This type of drug screening is warranted when an employer has sufficient evidence, based on objective facts, which violates their company’s drug and alcohol use policy.
Objective facts may include, but aren’t limited to, observable drug use and/or possession while on the job,
symptoms and indicators of being under the influence, and information from a credible source of an employee using drugs, selling
drugs, or tampering with a previous drug screen. Comprehensive documentation of all objective facts is crucial to proper
reasonable suspicion screening.
Post accident – this type of permissible drug screening is often required by insurance companies
to rule out the involvement of drugs or alcohol
Return to work - this type of permissible drug screening is used if an individual returns to work
after an extended leave of absence. It can also be used for re-hires.
As reported in a 2005 national survey presented by the Department of Health and Human Services on drug use
and health, individuals whose employers do not have a drug testing program reported a nearly 50% higher
incidence of illicit drug use. As a percentage, that's 10.5% using drugs in companies with no testing
vs. 7.1% reporting using drugs in companies that do test. Employment Investigative Services can assist
you in uncovering additional drug users within your organization - reducing your liability costs,
workman’s compensation costs, and increasing vital productivity.