Urine drug and alcohol testing
Urinalysis is the most popular drug test we provide. The test is provided as two options. First, as a rapid urine drug screen. This provides instant on-site screen results within minutes of the sample being collected. Second, is the legally defensible urine laboratory drug test. This test is performed in a UKAS 17025 accredited laboratory and is also used for Network Rail drug and alcohol tests.
How does urine drug testing work?
The rapid urine drug screen uses immunoassay technology to detect metabolites of the drugs we screen for. The detection method is set against predetermined cut-off levels as advised by the European Workplace Drug Testing Society (EWDTS).
The laboratory confirmation urine drug test identifies and quantifies specific drug groups. First by performing an initial screen, then by analysing any non-negative screens using the Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) method. All undertaken in a UKAS 17025 accredited laboratory facility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the advantage of using the rapid urine drug screen?
The main advantage of the point of care urine drug screen is access to instant results. However, results are not legally defensible, and must not be used for legal purposes or workplace disciplinary action. As a result, we recommend that samples from all non-negative screen results are sent to the laboratory for confirmation drug testing.
How long does it take for the urine drug test results?
Results are produced within 2 minutes for the rapid urine screen. Urine samples that are sent to the laboratory for testing undergo a next day screen. So, laboratory screen results can be reported within 1 to 2 working days. If GC-MS confirmation testing is required, this can take up to a further 3 to 5 working days. However, this is normally 3 working days, unless we have a particularly high volume of samples to process.
How is alcohol tested?
For the rapid urine screen, we normally test for alcohol using a calibrated breathalyser. Or we can also use saliva strips to detect the presence of alcohol. Alcohol cannot be tested in the urine collected for the rapid screen.
The same alcohol testing options are also available for the urine laboratory drug test. Although, we can test for alcohol in the urine as well. However, issues such as void bladder must be considered if choosing this option. Our advice would be to always opt for breath alcohol testing, if available. It is the most accurate from of alcohol testing we provide and is indicative of blood alcohol content at the time of obtaining the sample.
Alcohol cut-off levels are determined by clients, and normally reflect drink drive limits set in the county of collection. In addition, alcohol testing normally comes at no extra cost when undertaking a drug test.
What are the advantages for using the laboratory urine drug test?
As mentioned, the laboratory drug test reports can be used for legal purposes and disciplinary action in the workplace. This is the preferred method of testing for Network Rail and other safety critical industries such as Nuclear and power.
What drugs do you test for in urine?
For both the urine instant and laboratory tests, we have a standard panel of the most common recreational drugs. These are, Amphetamine and Methamphetamines which includes Ecstasy. Benzodiazepines, Cannabis, Cocaine and Opiates. We can also test other less common recreational and prescription drugs. In addition, some steroids, sedatives and a spiking panel of drugs can be tested if required. There are many options, so please call and speak to a Clinical Advisor for more information.
What is the cost of urine drug and alcohol testing?
There are lots of options available for this form of drug testing. Details for examples of the prices can be found on the drug and alcohol testing prices page. As an example, and depending on how many people attend one appointment, the costs can be as low as £60 per person. This would also include an alcohol test.
Local drug testing clinics, and mobile locations throughout the UK
For your convenience, we have a network of drug testing clinics throughout the UK. As a result, we can provide drug and alcohol test appointments for you in your local area. Or we can arrange for a certified sample collection officer to visit your home, workplace, or other location.
Head Office
Crystal Health Group
The Old Chapel
Manchester
M30 0NG