Common Mistakes Employers Make During Drug Testing (and How to Avoid Them)
Drug testing is one of the most effective ways employers can protect their workplace, reduce risk, and stay compliant — but only when it’s done correctly.
Even well-intentioned companies make mistakes that can lead to invalid results, compliance issues, or even legal challenges.
At Heartland Mobile Testing Services, we help businesses across the Kansas City Metro and Midwest streamline their testing programs and avoid costly errors. Here are the most common mistakes employers make — and how to prevent them.
1. Not Having a Clear Written Policy
One of the biggest mistakes is relying on verbal rules or outdated policies.
A proper drug testing program requires a clear, updated, and consistently enforced written policy.
Your policy should outline:
When testing occurs (pre-employment, random, post-accident, etc.)
What substances are tested
Testing procedures
Consequences for violations
Employee rights and expectations
A strong policy protects both the employer and the employee.
2. Failing to Train Supervisors Properly
Reasonable suspicion testing is only effective when supervisors are trained to recognize signs of impairment.
Without training, supervisors may hesitate to act — or act incorrectly — creating liability.
Proper training includes:
✔ Behavioral signs of impairment
✔ Documentation procedures
✔ When and how to initiate testing
✔ Protecting employee confidentiality
We offer support to help employers create consistent, defensible processes.
3. Sending Employees Off-Site for Testing
This is one of the most common — and expensive — mistakes.
Off-site clinic testing leads to:
Lost productivity
Time away from work
Delayed results
Higher risk of tampering
Mobile testing eliminates these issues by bringing certified collectors to your location — saving time, reducing risk, and keeping your workplace running smoothly.
4. Not Staying Updated on Federal or State Regulations
Regulations change often, especially for:
DOT-regulated employers
Marijuana laws
Medical use accommodations
Testing panel requirements
Failing to keep your policies current can put your business at risk of noncompliance or legal challenges.
Our team keeps businesses updated so you remain fully compliant.
5. Inconsistent Enforcement
Even with a great policy, inconsistent enforcement undermines your entire program.
Every employee — from entry-level to leadership — must follow the same rules.
Consistency builds trust, supports safety, and protects your company during audits or disputes.
6. Using Incorrect or Outdated Testing Panels
Different industries require different testing panels.
For example, DOT requires a standardized 5-panel test, while non-DOT employers may choose a 10-panel, oral fluid test, or hair test depending on risk level.
Using the wrong panel can result in ineffective screening or noncompliance.
We help employers choose the right panel for their workplace and industry.
7. Not Documenting the Process Properly
Documentation errors can invalidate results, cause audit failures, or expose the company legally.
Proper documentation ensures:
Chain of custody is maintained
Results are defensible
Compliance is met
Procedures are followed consistently
Mobile testing services like ours ensure documentation is handled accurately every time.
Avoiding Mistakes Starts With the Right Partner
Drug testing doesn’t have to be complicated.
Our certified collectors and compliance experts make the process simple, secure, and efficient — so you can focus on running your business.
📞 (913) 498-9669
✉️ info@heartlandmobiletesting.com
🌐 www.heartlandmobiletesting.com
Whether you're in Kansas City or anywhere across the Midwest, Heartland Mobile Testing Services is here to help your business stay safe, compliant, and confident.
