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Urine testing advantages

Lab-based urine drug testing

Urine drug testing detects recent drug use and is the only testing method approved for federally-mandated testing. Businesses rely on laboratory-based urine testing for its cost-effectiveness and capacity to screen for a wide variety of drug substances.

Widely accepted drug testing method

Drug testing aims to filter drug users from the workplace as well as to deter drug use on the job. Urine testing is the most common screening method and detects recent use, typically in the previous one to three days. It is suitable for all testing reasons – from pre-employment to random to post-accident – and can be performed for a wide range of illicit and prescription drugs. 

While a positive urine test does not necessarily mean that an individual was "under the influence" at the time of the test, it has become the standard for evidence of "current use" for the US Department of Labor (DOL). Urine testing is also the only method allowed for federally mandated drug tests.

Specimen validity testing

While it is the most common drug testing method, urine testing is not foolproof. With specimen validity testing, we can help ensure the integrity of the test by measuring pH, creatinine and specific gravity (when indicated) and testing for adulterants that may be added to the urine specimen. Quest Diagnostics is one of the few laboratories to offer oxidant identification for some of the most common oxidizing adulterants and is available when requested by the customer or Medical Review Officer.

Demonstrated ROI

Drug abuse in the workplace puts employers at a risk for higher insurance costs, more on the job accidents, increased absenteeism and lower productivity. Urine testing, like all drug testing methodologies, helps to mitigate these risks by screening out applicants and employees who use drugs. 

Get an accurate picture of your ROI using our Drug Testing Savings Calculator.

Download our Drug Testing Solutions At-A-Glance brochure with a matrix comparing urine, hair, instant, and oral fluid drug testing.

Download our urine drug testing FAQs for more information.

Get more workforce drug testing resources from Quest Diagnostics.

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