These days, most organizations prefer to conduct drug tests before they hire a new employee. This is essential to keep their environment safe and productive.
Most companies these days widely use the 5 panel drug test also recommended by DrugTestKitUSA.
Key Substances Tested in a 5 Panel Drug Screen
1. Cocaine
The plant that can provide the stimulant is called coca plant, and it is most commonly known as a white powder called as cocaine. It is a medication, which is often used incorrectly, especially by those who would like to lose weight or stay awake.
Cocaine is used in 5-panel test because it is a strength giving substance and is very dangerous to the life and health of any individual. Cocaine use is highly dangerous to job safety since it disposes an individual severely and impairs judgment, motor skill, and overall cognition.
2. Amphetamines
Both methamphetamine (meth) and other amphetamines are CNS stimulants which have invigorating effects, meaning that they are commonly used and abused. They are frequently taken recreationally to improve attention.
Although amphetamines can produce high energy, a fast heartbeat, and increased alertness, they can also create addiction and serious psychological side effects. The 5-panel drug screen also tests for Methamphetamine a higher version of amphetamine that is extremely addictive and dangerous.
3. Opiates
Opioids are drugs derived from opium poppy; they include unlawful substances such as heroin and lawful legal opioids such as morphine. These are powerful analgesics, but what is even more dangerous, they have a high tendency toward addiction.
Opioids are lethal when taken in excessive amounts or ingested inappropriately, they also blunt a person’s ability to function normally in the workplace, which is a concern for many industries, especially for tasks that require fine motor skills and alertness.
4. Phencyclidine (PCP)
PCP, sometimes referred to as “angel dust,” is a synthetic medication that was first created as an animal anesthetic. It is used recreationally due to the hallucinogenic impact of this plant although it has some medical application for animals.
Violent conduct, confusion, and long-term psychiatric problems can result from PCP use. It is a crucial drug to check for in any workplace drug test because of its harmful consequences.
5. THC (Marijuana)
The alkaloid of marijuana which is a drug now used more frequently because of its medical uses and in some states for recreation is known as THC. However, marijuana usage impairs judgement, motor coordination and even response rate and is banned commercially.
Employers commonly screen for THC so that employees are fit to work while under the influence of marijuana even where it falls under the legal category.
Conclusion
It becomes easy for employers to sustain drug-free workplace via the 5- panel drug test. It affords a positive measure that the employees are right for the position, and that safety is paramount. The 5-panel drug test is a very important tool in creating a safe workplace for the employee and the employer, whether the entity is a governmental one, a private company or a business in a high-risk field of industry.