I mean, Picture yourself in line for a job of a lifetime with a big problem-a drug test. Feels like just a random hurdle doesn’t it? For something that involves only taking a sample and a bit of science it sure can affect more on life’s path than one would think. In this article, we try and break that down for you.
Think of a lab buzzing with Scientists hard at work with equipment that could easily be part of a Star Trek Movie. Using tests like chromatography and immunoassa, they are out hunting for everything from the usual suspects like weed to rare prescription drugs. And then there are the unusual results – Could a poppy seed bagel give you an opiate hit? Its funny unless you find yourself in that awkward explanation of breakfast choices at work.
So why such a big deal about these tests? Companies view these as key to a safe productive workforce. They are more worried about safety violations and lawsuits than about harmless behavior in office. Most of what employers lose sleep over are the potential intoxicated forklift drivers than few coffee spills in the cafeteria. Still no one’ asking your colleague Fred from accounts department to stop at two cups of coffee.
Its not just paperwork and nervous waiting around, drug testing shows up as samples of real people, allowing us to think about what substances are doing in our ordinary lives. It’s more than just filling of a test tube, it requires some serious introspection. What’s the sweet spot for being thoughtful and being careful? Though, instead of making snap judgments, someday bosses will show mercy, lend a hand to employees in trouble.
Given the discussion on drug testing, it has been a matter of ongoing debate. Views vary from being a lifesaver when it comes to safety to a Big brotherly intrusion for many. But whether, you are in favor of it or not, they affect much more than what we realize. Is it time for more candid conversations about the same? Real talk might just be the answer one needs specially with a situation so personal to everyone dealing with drugs.
So if career has put you across a drug test then just interested in knowing the process of it, always remember, life’s a big show and it’s just one of the part. Ride it through with a mix of empathy, a little give and maybe coffee/Was.