Game-Changing New Drug Test to Hit the Market Soon
Although recreational and medical marijuana is legal in most states, marijuana use is still a concern for many employers.
Especially for certain occupations like bus drivers, medical professionals, and first responders, even medical marijuana poses a threat to the public if used improperly.
The problem most employers face is that individuals are most impaired by marijuana use within two to three hours after ingestion—which is not enough time to order a drug test to determine if marijuana is the culprit behind a workplace accident or misbehavior.
But all that could change with a new drug test for marijuana that is set to hit the market in 2020.
Doug Boxer from Hound Labs reports on the developing test. He states it’s similar to an alcohol breathalyzer and can detect marijuana use within the two-to-three hour time frame from smoking, vaping, dabbing and ingesting via edibles. It is accurate enough to distinguish recent use from historic use.
“This could be a game changer for employers who are struggling to determine when an employee may have used marijuana — whether it was on the job or off-duty,” said Ben Tievsky, senior associate in the New York office of Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP.
While employers wait for the breathalyzer to become available, Jennifer Mora, senior counsel in the Los Angeles office of Seyfarth Shaw LLP cautions employers to walk a fine line between ensuring the safety of their workplace and accommodating employees.
Even in states where marijuana use is legal, employers can train managers on impairment signs and use reasonable suspicion checklists. In the case of accommodating a disability, employers can explain to employees that if they come to work appearing under the influence, the individual will be subject to discipline up to and including termination.
At Nationwide Drug Testing Service, our staff is not only understanding and considerate, but knowledgeable as well. From the moment you contact us, you can expect to deal with a professional, well-trained Representative who will be with you throughout the entire process.
Nationwide Drug Testing Services is one of the largest accredited drug testing networks in the U.S. We offer testing in every state Nationwide, for affordable, Same-Day-Appointment Drug Testing and Fast, Accurate results.
Call us today at 877.497.1002 or Order a Test Online!
