NCJ Number
162189
Date Published
1989
Length
24 pages
Annotation
This chapter discusses the medical aspects of laboratory tests used to detect and deter substance abuse in the workplace and describes the Rapid Eye Test used to identify the conditions under which a urine test should be conducted.
Abstract
Until recently, urine testing was the single most important weapon employers had to combat drug abuse in the workplace. However, the Rapid Eye Test has gained significant attention as an essential adjunct to urine testing to identify possible substance abuse among applicants and employees. It should be noted, however, that breath tests for alcohol and laboratory tests (blood and urine) for the presence of illegal drugs or alcohol are currently the only two truly practical and legally established means for an employer to positively identify substance-abusing employees. Laboratory analyses of saliva are of little value in determining whether an employee has used drugs that might affect job performance or safety. The Rapid Eye Test is a cost-effective, noninvasive technique that can be easily learned by nonmedical personnel and administered in practically any workplace setting. The test is most frequently used as a preliminary test for drug influence; in response to probable cause (e.g., employee signs and symptoms of drug influence); and prior to a request for urine or blood testing. Included in this paper are guidelines for selecting a laboratory; how experienced drug abusers can falsify urine specimens; and saliva and hair analysis procedures. Tables, notes, references