Does UPS Drug Test? What Every Potential Employee Should Know
Last Updated on 20/08/2023 by UPS_ Admin
In an era where medicinal and recreational drug use intersects, where does UPS stand on employee drug testing? With the rise of medications like Adderall and products like THC and CBD, understanding corporate policies is crucial. Dive in as we explore UPS’s approach to drug screenings for its potential employees.
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DOES UPS DRUG TEST?
Yes, UPS conducts drug tests for certain roles, especially transportation and safety-sensitive positions. They use a 5-panel urine test screening for substances like THC and Amphetamines. While seasonal employees and driver helpers are less frequently tested, UPS maintains the right to administer random tests, particularly after accidents or if drug use is suspected.
WHEN DO UPS DRUG TESTS OCCUR?
1. Based on Employment Type:
- Full-Time Delivery Drivers:
- Pre-employment drug screen
- DOT physical drug test
- Potential random tests
- Part-Time and Temporary Employees:
- Typically not required to take a drug test, unless specific situations arise.
2. Workman’s Compensation:
- Both full-time and part-time/temporary employees are tested if they file for Workman’s Compensation. This ensures the injury wasn’t due to intoxication.
- If the injury occurred while under the influence, UPS might refuse compensation.
3. Reasonable Suspicion:
- Both types of employees (full-time and part-time/temporary) may be tested if a supervisor suspects drug use, especially if the employee appears to be under the influence while working.
4. Random Testing:
- UPS reserves the right to conduct random drug tests at any point during an employee’s tenure, particularly if there’s an accident at work or suspected drug use.
WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU FAIL TO PASS THE UPS DRUG TEST?
If you fail the UPS drug test, your employment will be terminated, and the failure will be recorded. UPS enforces strict drug testing policies to maintain workplace safety. Before receiving a job offer, if your drug test is positive, the hiring manager will decide the next steps. Most often, UPS will choose not to hire you due to the potential risks. Some employers, like Hobby Lobby, follow similar strict protocols. On rare occasions, provided you can demonstrate a commitment to seeking professional help, there might be considerations for employment, but this is not common.
WHAT DOES UPS DRUG TEST FOR?
UPS conducts drug testing on employees and keeps the results on file for a year. They primarily use oral swabs and urine samples for these tests. Random drug testing can occur anytime, and failing the test results in immediate termination. Full-time UPS employees agree to random testing, while part-time workers generally aren’t tested unless specific circumstances arise. Testing outcomes are typically available within a few days.
1. Substances Tested For:
- Amphetamines:
- Includes drugs like Adderall, Ritalin, and Dexedrine.
- Cocaine:
- The illicit street drug.
- Marijuana:
- Refers to both THC and CBD.
- Opiates:
- Includes heroin, codeine, oxycodone, hydrocodone, and tramadol.
- PCP (Phencyclidine):
- An illegal hallucinogenic drug.
- Other Substances:
- MMJ, Barbiturates, Benzodiazepines, Ethyl alcohol, and Hydrocodone.
2. Testing Methods:
- UPS primarily uses oral swabs and urine samples for their substance tests.
- Urine tests detect substances like Methamphetamine, Alcohol, THC (marijuana), Cocaine, Opiates (heroin, opium, morphine), and PCP.
Does UPS drug test package handlers, drivers, dock workers, store associates, and seasonal employees?
Package Handlers:
- UPS began drug testing for some package handlers in 2020, but it’s noted that there are mixed reviews even after 2020.
- It seems the drug test requirement for package handlers largely depends on the supervisor in charge of hiring and the specific facility.
- UPS may conduct random drug tests for package handlers, especially since some of them operate heavy machinery like forklifts in the warehouse.
- They might also be drug tested if there’s any suspicion of drug use or following incidents at work.
Drivers:
- UPS does not typically test package car drivers unless there’s a specific reason. If a significant incident occurs, like an accident leading to significant property damage or injury, they will likely be tested.
- Drivers are also subjected to a physical test by the Department of Transportation (DOT) to ensure they are fit for duty.
- Some feeder drivers are drug tested periodically, though the exact frequency is unclear.
Dock Workers:
- Dock workers, in general, do not have to undergo drug tests. However, this information seems to be anecdotal, and specific policies might differ by location or supervisor discretion.
Seasonal Employees:
- Seasonal employees are typically not drug tested prior to employment at UPS.
- The only scenarios where a seasonal employee might be drug-tested include suspicion of drug use, being inebriated at work, or if an accident occurs. This is largely for safety and compliance with worker’s compensation laws.
Store Associates:
- The data dump doesn’t specify information about drug testing for store associates, so no conclusive details can be provided for this category.
Note: UPS, like many companies, prefers not to openly disclose details about its drug testing policies, making it challenging to provide definitive answers. As with any company policy, it’s always a good idea to ask HR directly or consult official company documentation.
