Do Construction Jobs Drug Test? Here’s What You Need to Know
In this blog, I’ll answer the big question: Do construction jobs drug test? and share insights you need to know about how this affects your career in the construction industry.
Do Construction Jobs Drug Test?
The answer is yes—construction companies do drug test. Depending on your role, the state you’re in, and the company’s policies, the frequency and type of testing may vary. Smaller companies or trade partners might not require drug testing, but generally, I’ve seen very few that don’t.
Even as a general contractor myself, I’ve always been drug tested. This is common in construction, given the safety concerns and potential risks involved in the work.
The War on Drugs: Its Effect on Society and the Industry
I want to talk about something that’s often overlooked: the stigma surrounding drugs in the U.S., primarily due to the War on Drugs. The United States holds 20% of the world’s prison population, largely because of drug-related convictions. While this is a political topic in its own right, it’s crucial to understand how this history affects people trying to enter industries like construction.
Some individuals with a past related to drugs might also have felony records. It’s easy to judge them from the outside, but we need to remember that many of these people are good individuals with histories that don’t define their potential in the workplace. We, in construction, often look down on those with such pasts, but we need to be open to welcoming people with diverse backgrounds, including those who’ve overcome struggles with substance abuse.
A Story of Redemption in Construction
A friend of mine, Josh Young, shared a story about a carpenter who had a past with drugs. After a relapse, Josh supported this worker, encouraging him to seek help and rehab. Thanks to patience and guidance, that individual returned to the job, passed the drug test, and has been a reliable worker for over five years. This story illustrates that sometimes the best workers come from backgrounds that require a little extra understanding.
Company Requirements for Drug Testing
While I’m not advocating for hiring people currently using drugs or working under the influence, I am saying that we should approach the hiring process with compassion. Yes, you will need to pass a drug test to get hired. Be aware of your state’s laws, especially with the increasing legalization of marijuana, but remember, many companies still require employees to be cannabis-free. So, always know the policies before you start.
Why Do Construction Companies Drug Test?
- Safety: The primary reason for drug testing is safety. The use of drugs, and even alcohol, can significantly affect judgment, reaction times, and overall safety on-site.
- Prevention: Many companies drug test from the outset to avoid potential hazards from intoxication.
- Random Testing: Random drug testing is common across construction sites. You may be tested after hire, so staying clean is essential.
- Post-Incident Testing: After any work-related incident, no matter how minor, expect a drug test to be part of the process.
- Owner Requirements: Some government agencies, state entities, and project owners may require drug testing, even if the construction company itself doesn’t.
- Types of Tests: Drug testing could involve hair, saliva, urine, or blood samples, with urine testing being the most common method.
Tips for Navigating Company Policies
Remember, policies vary by company, so be sure to ask about their drug and alcohol regulations when you’re applying for a job. Always be transparent and never attempt to cheat the system. If you sign up to follow a company’s policies, stick to them. It’s important to maintain integrity throughout your career.
Final Thoughts
If you are considering a construction career, know what the requirements are regarding drug use. There are intelligent ways to navigate this conversation during interviews, so be transparent and ask the right questions. This blog post is meant to help you understand the realities of drug testing in construction, and I hope it has been helpful to you.
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