Drug testing is the analysis of body fluids to determine whether a person is using illegal drugs. Such tests are widely used in the workplace, in the military, and in criminal justice and drug treatment programs. Some athletic associations and schools also use drug tests to detect the use of performance enhancing drugs, such as steroids.
Modern drug testing employs accurate and reliable biochemistry techniques. Generally, the procedure involves sending a urine sample to a laboratory. The sample is given an initial screening test called an immunoassay. If the result of that test is positive, another test is used to confirm the result. The confirmation test is called gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. The laboratory will not report a positive test result unless both tests show the presence of an illegal drug. In addition, positive test results are typically reviewed by a physician. The physician will determine whether the individual has a valid medical reason for using the drug.
Since the 1980’s, drug testing of employees and job applicants has become a standard practice in many industries. Numerous business leaders believe that people who use illegal drugs will be poor workers. Such workers may also endanger the lives of their co-workers. But some workers view drug testing as a violation of their privacy and civil rights. Some people have concerns about the accuracy of certain types of drug tests.
In 1986, the United States government ordered all federal agencies to screen their employees for illegal drug use. Since that time, the government has issued regulations that require drug testing in the nuclear power industry and in transportation companies, including airlines and railroads. Many state and local agencies also have adopted drug-testing programs.
The term drug testing may also be used to refer to tests carried out by drug manufacturers. Such tests are done to determine the effectiveness of drugs they wish to make and sell legally.
See also Blood doping; Drug misuse; Olympic Games (Charges of steroid use); Steroid.
