Drug testing practices in the US construction industry in 2008

Abstract

Drug testing is an effective way to improve jobsite safety, productivity and profits. Since drug use impairs the abilities of construction workers, many construction companies have implemented drug testing policies. The research aim was to identify the current drug testing practices of construction contractors. The research objectives were to determine: (1) the extent of the implementation of drug testing; (2) testing practices being used; (3) testing methods being used; (4) the most frequently drugs used; and (5) the use and prevalence of adulterants to cheat on drug tests. In 2008 the data were collected through surveys sent to US construction firms that were randomly selected from the Blue Book of Building and Construction. The results show that drug use continues to be a concern although the extent of drug use has declined in recent years. Most of the firms conduct both pre-employment drug screening and random drug testing. Marijuana and cocaine are the primary drugs used. Urine analysis continues to be the most common drug test used, while other testing methods are being explored with some hesitance. Cheating on drug tests appears to be a major concern. The results show that there is a statistically significant relationship between drug usage and safety performance.

Keywords:

• Construction safety
• drug testing methods
• adulterants
• drug testing programmes
• workers’ compensation