Organizations are always on the lookout for innovative new ways to improve the accuracy and timeliness of their background check processes. We’ve probably all heard of urine testing and hair testing, which have both been used for years. Oral swab testing is a new-ish addition that’s growing in popularity across several industries.
This non-invasive, efficient, and reliable form of drug testing can add another layer of protection to an organization’s hiring and employee monitoring practices. By incorporating oral swab testing into their background screening protocols, companies can better ensure the safety, productivity, and overall well-being of their workforce.
What Is Oral Swab Testing?
Oral swab testing, also called saliva testing, detects drugs in an individual’s system.
It’s a straightforward process. An administrator (typically an organization’s employee) gives the donor a swab to collect saliva. The administrator inserts the sample into a device that analyzes the saliva for traces of substances such as marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and more. Within 10 minutes, the test returns positive or negative results.
What Are the Benefits of Oral Swab Testing?
Organizations are increasingly recognizing the numerous benefits this type of drug screening offers to their overall process.
- Non-invasive. Unlike other drug testing options like hair or urine testing, oral swab screening isn’t uncomfortable or embarrassing to the person being screened. It’s simply a rub inside their cheek for a few seconds to collect the sample.
- User-friendly. Oral swabbing can be done in a person’s office or on a construction site. It doesn’t take an office visit or a trained professional to administer and read it like some of the other drug screening options.
- Difficult to tamper with. Since the administrator watches the entire process, there’s little chance for the person being tested to alter the sample.
- Provides quick results. Positive or negative results are returned within 10 minutes of taking the test.
- Detects recent use. Unlike other drug testing methods, oral swab testing detects drug use that has happened within the last hour.
Oral Swab Testing for Various Industries
Some industries are more inclined (some are required) to stringently test for drugs and alcohol. For these industries, oral swab testing fills a need in their process. Let’s look at how four (4) specific verticals use it.
Healthcare Industry
Maintaining a drug-free workplace is required to ensure patient safety and deliver high-quality care. Healthcare professionals, from doctors, nurses, and pharmacists to administrative staff, must be drug and alcohol-free on the job. Oral swab testing can quickly confirm if an employee is under the influence post-incident or upon reasonable suspicion.
Example
A hospital implementing oral swab testing as part of its drug testing and monitoring process adds it as a requirement after an incident occurs. Mixing up medicines may be considered an incident. In this example, oral testing helps the hospital minimize the chances of medical errors and improve patient care.
Manufacturing Industry
The manufacturing industry is another sector where drug use can cause big issues. Workers in manufacturing environments often handle heavy machinery, hazardous materials, and complex equipment. The presence of drugs in an employee’s system can lead to severe accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. Oral swab testing can help minimize these issues.
Example
A manufacturing plant incorporates oral swab testing into its employee screening process by using it as a random test. By regularly testing existing employees randomly, they can identify individuals who may be under the influence. This plant prevents workplace accidents, reduces downtime caused by incidents, and ensures a safer work environment.
Hospitality Industry
The hospitality industry (hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues) relies heavily on customer satisfaction and service excellence. Employees in this sector often interact directly with guests, making it essential for them to be alert, courteous, and responsible. Drug use among staff can severely impact the quality of service and the overall guest experience, which can damage the brand’s reputation.
Example
A hotel chain adopts oral swab testing as part of its post-employment screening process for employees who are acting suspiciously. The criteria for this (which should be documented in the company drug screening policy) may include missing work, showing up late, poor performance, looking disheveled, and other changes in normal behavior. By identifying drug issues before a serious incident occurs, the hotel can maintain a high standard of service, avoid potential lawsuits and fines, and maintain a professional image.
Oral Swab Testing Offers a Versatile Solution for Many Companies
By integrating oral testing into their employee screening and monitoring protocols, companies can add an extra layer of protection and ensure a safer and more productive workplace. Using oral swab testing improves workplace safety, reduces risk, and builds a stronger, more reliable workforce.
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