Nowadays, companies of different types and sectors implement drug testing as a policy to guarantee protection and prevent substance consumption during work. Despite the variety of possible and existing drug tests, one of the most popular is 12 panel drug test – the function of which falls within the identification of many substances.
Why is the 12 panel drug test needed?
A 12 panel drug test is important for many reasons.
- Safety in the workplace
- Pre-employment
- Efficacy of drug rehabilitation programs
- Athlete monitoring
It is relevant especially in industries that require strict operation standards like transportation, healthcare, and police force since the mistakes can cost lives. The rationale for such tests is to have a check on drug abuse and its effects on the society or the people affected. Drug testing policies leads to provision of a healthy and increased productivity work environment.
Did you know how the 12 panel drug test works?
It works in the same way as most of the other drug tests. Its aim is to determine the presence of particular drugs in the system of a given person. What is on a 12 panel drug test?
The test is for testing various drugs and their metabolites including:
- Amphetamines
- Barbiturates
- Benzodiazepines
- Cocaine
- Methadone
- Opiates
- Phencyclidine (PCP)
- THC
- Ecstasy (MDMA)
- Propoxyphene
- Oxycodone
- Hydrocodone
For additional details on the drug testing such as the drug detection windows, factors that influence the test and tips on how to prepare for the test, you can visit the DTKUSA Blog.
A typical 12 panel drug test involves the following process:
- Collection of the specimen: Urine sample is collected in a sterile environment, either administered by a physician or a health official or a drug analyst. Sometimes, hair follicle or blood analysis may be performed depending on the particulars of the testing program in question.
- Preparation of the sample: The collected sample is subjected to screening, which is a simple test. Commonly, it is an immunoassay, which involves the use of antibodies which are capable of identifying the drug metabolites present in the sample. The immunoassay is inexpensive with short turn-around time and can be done locally.
- Confirmation testing: If screening test shows positive, the second screening test using another more accurate screening test like GC-MS or LC-MS is then performed. Only the drug metabolites are detected and measured in the sample and this experience guarantee the results.
- Result interpretation and reporting: The last results of the drug test are read and analyzed by a qualified medical review officer or license practitioner. Incorporating all plausible medical causes for a positive result, MRO analyzes the test results and reports only the accurate positive values. The findings are also shared the necessary parties or person as provided in the drug testing policy.
Conclusion
The 12 panel drug test is an effective tool for identifying drug users and provides a drug-free workplace environment. This test is helpful because it identifies possible complications for several drug classes at once and allows action to be taken regarding those complications as needed. This test has its limitations but remains a key part of drug testing policies and programs.
