by Killian Lucas


The need to help reduce the number of substance abusers is growing because more people are abusing substances. New systems to address this need are being created and one that has everybody talking is the mobile test model. What are the advantages of mobile drug testing at the abuser's location? On site control is rapidly growing in popularity. It is done by experts who will come to the work place or residence. The random test is done according to the State Regulations as well as the guidelines according to the Federal Drug Free Workplace Testing Guidelines.

On site testing has proven to be a better alternative to the random testing that has been the standard for many years. It has grown in popularity for the many beneficial results it has helped bring about. Employers are better able to keep a drug free work environment since the likelihood of hiring better employees is significantly increased.

The employers are able to incorporate a policy for drug testing at the job location. Not only does this help in reducing the frequency of theft, absenteeism, insurance rate hikes and productivity reduction, but it also creates a happier more positive atmosphere in which to work.

The statistics reflecting drug use of employed individuals is startlingly high. Nearly seventy-five percent of substance abusers are paid employees and nationally, 9.4 million employees are currently drug abusers. These individuals are the source of causing added expenses amounting to seven to thirteen thousand dollars annually to their employer. Employers understand now that this additional expense can be greatly reduced if on site substance abuse testing is permitted.

When the work place is drug free the morale is much improved. There is a 51% reduction in workplace accidents when there is on site random substance abuse control. This decrease in accidents is noticeable within two years of the set up of the substance abuse control program. Fewer people end up applying to Workmen's Compensation once the on site program is established

In the past many employers questioned the results of substance abuse tests administered at non-mobile, off-site substance abuse test facilities.In many cases the identities of the employees were falsified because other individuals came in their place to provide the samples. A second problem to be solved was the loss of tested samples. Tampering and loss of samples cannot happen with onsite testing.

It is also possible for entrepreneurs to establish a mobile drug testing franchise. The franchise provides the benefits of a business model that has been proven. Checking for drugs is a market niche that is growing in demand. The franchise offers a full program of marketing and training. Courses are offered to supervisors as well as other personnel. Small franchises can be set up under the main franchise. The mobile unit offers low overhead and fewer if any employees are required.

What are the advantages of mobile drug testing when there is a problem with substance abuse in the home? If there are concerns about a family member and their substance abuse the mobile unit can administer the test at home where an intervention program can be implemented. The test results would positively confirm the use of drugs. Substance abuse is a serious problem and a mobile unit can be an important component to successful intervention.




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