As a small business owner, maintaining a drug-free workplace is essential for safety, productivity, and compliance with industry regulations. However, recent reports indicate that more employees than ever are attempting to cheat on workplace drug tests. Understanding these deceptive tactics can help you take proactive steps to prevent drug use in your business and protect your workforce.

The Rising Trend of Drug Test Cheating

A recent study by Quest Diagnostics found that attempts to tamper with workplace drug tests increased more than sixfold in 2023.¹ This spike coincides with the growing legalization of marijuana and shifting societal attitudes toward drug use. While some employees may believe so-called “recreational” drug use is harmless, workplace impairment can pose serious safety risks, especially in industries that require alertness and precision.

Common Methods of Cheating on Drug Tests

Employees typically use one of the following methods to try and pass a drug test dishonestly:

1. Substituting Urine Samples
   1. Employees may replace their urine with synthetic urine or even animal urine to produce a clean test result.
   1. Some purchase synthetic urine kits online (doing a quick online search for “urine to pass a drug test” gives hundreds of results for items you can purchase) or at the local gas station, which can include heating pads to maintain the correct temperature.
2. Adulterating the Sample
   1. Some individuals attempt to alter their urine samples by adding chemicals like bleach, vinegar, or even detergent to mask drug metabolites.
   1. Lab tests can often detect these tampering attempts, but newer substances are constantly being developed.
3. Diluting the Sample
   1. Drinking excessive amounts of water or taking diuretics before a test can dilute drug traces in urine, sometimes making the results inconclusive.
   1. Some employees use special “detox drinks” marketed to help individuals pass drug tests.
4. Using Another Person’s Urine
   1. In some cases, individuals may sneak in a clean urine sample from a friend or relative.
   1. Concealment devices, such as synthetic bladders, make this method more effective.

How Small Businesses Can Combat Drug Test Cheating

To ensure accurate and reliable drug test results, small business owners should consider the following strategies:

1. Implement Strict Collection Procedures

• Use observed collections when legally permitted, especially for high-risk positions.
• Require temperature and validity checks for urine samples to detect tampering.

2. Use Alternative Testing Methods

• Urine testing is the most common method, but other options exist:
  • Oral fluid testing: Detects drug use immediately after consumption and eliminates privacy concerns since samples are collected under supervision.
  • Hair follicle testing: Provides a longer detection window (up to 90 days) and is difficult to cheat.
  • Sweat patch testing: Continuously monitors drug use over an extended period.

3. Educate Employees on the Risks of Drug Use

• Foster a workplace culture that prioritizes safety and wellness.
• Communicate the consequences of a failed drug test, such as termination or loss of job opportunities.

4. Establish a Comprehensive Drug-Free Workplace Policy

• Clearly outline the testing procedures, frequency, and consequences of positive results.
• Provide support programs, such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), to help workers struggling with substance use.

With drug test cheating on the rise, small business owners must stay vigilant. By implementing stricter testing protocols, exploring alternative testing methods, and fostering a strong drug-free workplace culture, you can help ensure the safety and success of your business.

Citations:

1. Workforce drug test cheating surged in 2023, finds Quest Diagnostics Drug Testing Index analysis of nearly 10 million drug tests. (2024, May 15). Quest Diagnostics Newsroom. https://newsroom.questdiagnostics.com/2024-05-15-Workforce-Drug-Test-Cheating-Surged-in-2023,-Finds-Quest-Diagnostics-Drug-Testing-Index-Analysis-of-Nearly-10-Million-Drug-Tests

Sources:

Cerullo, M. (2024, May 17). More employees are cheating on workplace drug tests. Here’s how they do it. CBS News. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/cheating-on-workplace-drug-tests/