Drug Testing - NYC

Before anyone comes at me for being an idiot, I do not do drugs.

I recently landed a SS Research role at a BB. Part of my background check includes submitting a drug test. I am currently on a medication that the FDA recognizes to cause false positives for THC. I would prefer not to discuss this with the DOR as it will seem a bit sketchy to ask about specifics of a drug test, but I also do not want this to become an issue.

I have read that NYC companies cannot fire/not hire you because of THC, but I also have gotten some opposing feedback on this. I would love to hear if THC will be an issue for a drug test/if I should offer to submit blood/hair (the medication I am on only messes with urine tests) ahead of time in case I come up as a false positive.

Thank you everyone!

4 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some key points regarding drug testing and potential false positives:

  1. Hair Follicle Drug Testing:

    • Hair follicle tests are highly sensitive and can detect drug use up to 90 days prior.
    • They test for substances like Cocaine, Marijuana, Opiates, Meth, and PCP.
    • Hair samples are cut as close to the scalp as possible, typically testing the most recent 1.5 inches of hair.
    • If head hair is too short, body hair can be used, but it may represent a longer detection period.
  2. False Positives:

    • Certain medications can cause false positives in urine tests for THC.
    • Hair and blood tests are less likely to be affected by these medications.
  3. NYC Regulations:

    • There is conflicting information about whether NYC companies can fire or not hire based on THC results.
    • It is advisable to clarify this with your potential employer or HR department without directly discussing your medication.
  4. Recommendations:

    • Consider offering to submit a hair or blood test instead of a urine test to avoid false positives.
    • If a urine test is mandatory, inform the testing facility about your medication to ensure they interpret the results correctly.

By following these steps, you can address the potential issue of false positives while maintaining your privacy regarding your medication.

Sources: Hair Drug Test for Job, HFF Drug Test Summer Intern, How I Cheated a Drug Test for an Offer I Didn't Accept, Drug Test for SA roles, REPE failed drug test

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

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