What is Oral Fluid Testing?

Oral Fluid Testing, also known as saliva drug testing, is a method used to detect the presence of THC (the psychoactive compound in cannabis), amphetamines’, cocaine, fentanyl and more in an individual’s saliva. This non-invasive and relatively simple test involves collecting a sample of saliva from the individual’s mouth, typically by using an absorbent pad or swab. Oral Fluid Testing is a primary alternative to urine collection for THC and other drug-types.

How does Oral Fluid Testing work?

The individual being tested is asked to place the collection device in their mouth for a few minutes until the pad or swab becomes saturated with saliva. Once an adequate sample is obtained, the device is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. In the lab, the sample undergoes screening for the presence of THC metabolites, indicating recent cannabis use.

Why is Oral Fluid Testing Important for Employers?

  • Accuracy: Oral Fluid Testing offers high accuracy in detecting recent cannabis use. Drugs such as THC metabolites, can be detected in saliva shortly after cannabis consumption, providing employers with a reliable indication of recent drug use.
  • Non-invasive: Unlike urine or blood tests, oral fluid testing is non-invasive and does not require special facilities or trained medical personnel to collect samples. This makes it a convenient and practical option for both employers and employees.
Oral Fluid THC Testing Services
  • Immediate Results: Oral fluid tests typically yield rapid results, often within a matter of minutes to hours, depending on the testing method used. This quick turnaround time allows employers to make timely decisions regarding hiring or workplace safety.
  • Deterrence: The implementation of Oral Fluid Testing can serve as a deterrent to employees who may engage in cannabis use, particularly in safety-sensitive industries where impairment can pose significant risks.
  • Legal Compliance: In many jurisdictions, employers are required to ensure a drug-free workplace, especially in safety-sensitive industries such as transportation, construction, and healthcare. Implementing Oral Fluid Testing helps employers maintain compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

Pre and Post-Employment Testing

Implementing Oral Fluid Testing for both pre and post-employment drug screening offers several advantages:

  • Pre-Employment Testing: Screening potential hires for cannabis use helps employers ensure they are hiring individuals who are not under the influence of drugs during the hiring process. It also sets clear expectations regarding drug use policies within the organization.
  • Post-Employment Testing: Conducting periodic or random oral fluid tests for current employees helps employers maintain a drug-free workplace environment. It serves as a proactive measure to identify and address any potential drug use among employees, thereby promoting safety and productivity.

Oral Fluid Testing is a valuable tool for employers seeking to maintain a safe and drug-free workplace environment. Its accuracy, non-invasiveness, quick results, and compliance with legal requirements make it an ideal choice for pre and post-employment drug screening. By implementing this testing method, employers can mitigate risks associated with drug use in the workplace and ensure the safety and well-being of their employees.

Following marijuana usage, THC is metabolized and stored in the body as the non-psychoactive cannabis metabolite. So, if a urine test screens positive for the non-psychoactive cannabis metabolite, it means that the usage could have been anywhere from 1-30 days prior to the test (i.e. enough time has elapsed for the THC to metabolize). On the other hand, oral fluid has the capability to test for the psychoactive compound, meaning the THC has not yet metabolized, which in turn means the usage was more recent (<24 hours).  

FAQ

Does removing Marijuana, per se, in testing mean removing the whole thing – both THC, which affects the mental state AND the non-psychoactive metabolites?

These are not mutually exclusive – when THC is metabolized, it is stored in the body as the non-psychoactive cannabis metabolite. This is the ONLY metabolite that is screened for in urine testing. Removing marijuana from your non-DOT urine testing panel will remove this substance entirely.  

Does the revised panel still test for the other illegal drugs – cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, etc?

Yes, the other substances in your panel would remain unchanged.

Marijuana (including THC) is legal to use in California but not at work. So, if a Class A driver is randomly tested through Oral Fluid Testing and it detects THC, he should be removed from driving and disciplined, i.e., suspension or whatever we have defined as disciplinary action?

For a Commercial Class A driver: If so, they would be subject to DOT-FMCSA regulations. Oral fluid testing cannot be implemented for DOT testing yet because HHS hasn’t certified two labs.  

For a non-DOT driver, per AB 2188 Sec 2, 12954 (a): …does not prohibit an employer from discriminating in hiring, or any term or condition of employment, or otherwise penalize a person based on scientifically valid preemployment drug screening conducted through methods that do not screen for non-psychoactive cannabis metabolites. – This would include lab based oral fluid testing. Please let me know if you would like more information/pricing for oral fluid testing.