Target, the retail giant, is one of the most popular places to shop in America. With their wide range of products and plethora of discounts, it’s unsurprising that millions of people flock to their stores every year. However, what many may not know is that Target is also one of the biggest employers in the country. With over 350,000 employees, Target has an extensive hiring process, and part of that process includes drug testing.
Drug testing is a common practice among employers in America, and it serves to ensure that prospective employees are not using any illegal substances. Target is no exception to this rule, and they conduct drug testing as part of their hiring process. However, many prospective employees may wonder what kind of drug test Target uses. Some may wonder if it’s a urine test or a hair test. Others may wonder if it’s a saliva test or a blood test. Whatever the case may be, it’s essential to know what kind of drug test Target uses if you’re considering applying for a job there.
In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at what drug test Target uses and how they conduct their testing process. Whether you’re a current or potential employee, it’s crucial to understand this aspect of the hiring process. We’ll dive deep into the specifics of Target’s drug testing, so you can be better prepared for what to expect when going through the process. So, if you’re curious about what kind of drug test Target uses, read on to find out more.
Types of Drug Tests
Drug testing is a standard process in most companies to ensure a safe and healthy workplace environment. Target is one of the companies that conduct drug testing among employees to promote a drug-free workplace. However, the type of drug test that Target uses depends on various factors.
- Urine Drug Test
- Blood Drug Test
- Saliva Drug Test
- Hair Drug Test
One of the most common drug tests that Target uses is the urine drug test. This test is cost-effective, non-invasive, and can detect recent drug use. During the urine drug test, a sample of urine is collected from the employee and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The laboratory tests the sample for the presence of drugs or their metabolites.
Target may also use blood drug testing for its employees. This drug test is particularly useful for detecting recent drug use and is highly accurate in identifying the potency of drugs. The blood test measures the concentration level of drugs in the blood, which can indicate drug use in the past few hours or days.
Another type of drug test that Target may use is the saliva drug test. This test is relatively new and is becoming increasingly popular among employers because it’s less invasive than a urine or blood test. The saliva test detects the presence of drugs in the saliva and is an accurate indicator of recent drug use.
Hair drug testing is another type of drug test that Target may use. This test is more expensive than other types of drug tests but is more reliable in detecting long-term drug use. The test detects the presence of drugs in the hair shafts, which can provide information about a person’s drug use over several months.
| Drug Test Type | Detection Window | Accuracy | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Urine Drug Test | Up to 30 days | High | Low |
| Blood Drug Test | Hours to days | High | High |
| Saliva Drug Test | Up to 72 hours | High | Medium |
| Hair Drug Test | Up to 90 days | High | High |
It’s essential to note that Target’s drug-testing policies can vary depending on your geographical location and the position you apply for. Therefore, it’s always best to check with the company’s HR representative to ensure you’re aware of the drug testing policies for your specific position and location.
Drug Testing in the Workplace
Drug testing in the workplace is a common practice to ensure that employees are working safely and productively. Drug testing can help employers deter drug use among their employees and prevent accidents or errors caused by impaired judgment.
- Types of drug tests
- What drug test does Target use?
- Pros and cons of drug testing in the workplace
There are different types of drug tests that employers can use, including urine, hair, saliva, and blood tests. These tests can detect the presence of different drugs, including marijuana, cocaine, opioids, and amphetamines. Some drug tests can also detect alcohol use.
Target, one of the largest retail companies in the U.S., uses urine drug tests to screen its employees. Urine drug tests are one of the most commonly used drug tests in the workplace. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to administer.
While drug testing in the workplace has its advantages, it also has its downsides. Some argue that drug testing can be invasive, expensive, and may not accurately reflect an employee’s productivity or potential. Moreover, drug testing can also create a culture of suspicion and distrust among employees.
Pros and cons of drug testing in the workplace
Proponents of drug testing argue that it can help employers maintain a safe and productive work environment. By deterring drug use among employees, drug testing can prevent accidents, errors, and other safety risks. Employers can also use drug testing as a way to comply with federal regulations or to reduce insurance costs.
However, opponents of drug testing argue that it can be a violation of an employee’s privacy and a form of workplace discrimination. Moreover, drug testing can be unreliable and may not accurately reflect an employee’s fitness for work. For example, a positive drug test may not necessarily indicate that the employee is impaired at the time of the test or that they have a substance abuse problem.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Helps maintain a safe work environment | Can be invasive and violate employees’ privacy |
| Can deter drug use among employees | May not accurately reflect an employee’s fitness for work |
| Can comply with federal regulations or reduce insurance costs | Can create a culture of suspicion and distrust |
Overall, the decision to implement drug testing in the workplace should be made after careful consideration of the potential benefits and drawbacks. Employers should also ensure that drug testing policies are fair, transparent, and respectful of employees’ rights and privacy.
DOT Drug Testing Regulations
As an employer, it’s crucial to follow the regulations set by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) when it comes to drug testing. These regulations are in place to ensure the safety of employees and the public, especially those who operate vehicles.
Here are some important things to note:
Types of Tests Used by Target
- Pre-Employment Testing: This type of drug testing is conducted before an employee is hired. It is used to ensure that the new employee is drug-free and fit to work in a safety-sensitive position.
- Random Testing: This type of testing is conducted on a random selection of employees to ensure that they are drug-free at all times.
- Reasonable Suspicion Testing: This type of drug testing is conducted when there is a suspicion that an employee is under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Post-Accident Testing: This type of drug testing is conducted after an accident has occurred to determine whether drugs or alcohol were a factor.
- Return to Duty Testing: This type of testing is conducted after an employee has completed drug and/or alcohol treatment and is ready to return to work.
DOT Drug Testing Panels
DOT drug testing panels consist of five types of drugs:
- Cocaine
- Marijuana
- Amphetamines
- Opiates
- Phencyclidine (PCP)
According to DOT regulations, only laboratories certified by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) are authorized to perform DOT drug testing. Additionally, each drug testing specimen must be collected using specific procedures outlined by the DOT.
Conclusion
By following DOT drug testing regulations, Target ensures that its employees are safe and drug-free while on the job. DOT drug testing panels that consist of select drugs help to ensure that employees are tested for the most commonly abused substances. Understanding DOT drug testing regulations is an important factor for employers to ensure that their employees are safe and their business is in compliance with the law.
| Drug | Initial Test Cutoff Concentration (ng/mL) | Confirmatory Test Cutoff Concentration (ng/mL) |
|---|---|---|
| Cocaine | 150 | 100 |
| Marijuana | 50 | 15 |
| Phencyclidine (PCP) | 25 | 25 |
| Opiates | Morphine – 2000 Codeine/Morphine – 2000 | Morphine – 2000 Codeine/Morphine – 2000 |
| Amphetamines | 500 | 250 |
Note: The above cutoff concentrations are determined by SAMHSA and are subject to change.
Home Drug Testing Kits
For those who want to test themselves before applying for their job at Target, home drug testing kits are a popular and cost-effective option. These kits can be purchased online or in-store at drugstores and are typically very easy to use, providing fast and accurate results. Here are some of the most popular home drug testing kits:
- First Check Home Drug Test: This kit tests for up to 12 different drugs, including marijuana, cocaine, and opiates. It can provide results in as little as 5 minutes and is FDA-cleared for accuracy.
- DrugConfirm Home Drug Test: This kit tests for up to 12 different drugs and can provide results in just a few minutes. It’s also FDA-cleared for accuracy and has a 99% detection rate for most drugs.
- Wondfo Drug Test Kits: This kit tests for a variety of drugs, from marijuana and cocaine to benzodiazepines and tricyclic antidepressants. It can provide results in as little as 5 minutes and is a popular choice due to its affordability and accuracy.
While home drug testing kits can give you an idea of what drugs may show up in a Target drug test, it’s important to keep in mind that they are not always as accurate as lab testing. Additionally, some employers may not accept the results of a home drug test and may require you to take an official test with a lab. Before purchasing a home drug testing kit, check with your potential employer to see if they accept home testing or if they require another type of drug test.
Top Tips for Using Home Drug Testing Kits
If you choose to use a home drug testing kit, it’s important to follow the instructions carefully to get the most accurate results. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Read the instructions carefully before starting the test.
- Make sure the kit is not expired.
- Collect the urine sample as directed.
- Use a timer to track the testing time accurately.
- Observe the test results within the recommended time frame.
- Consider testing the same sample with two different kits to confirm the results.
Drug Test Types and Detection Windows
It’s important to understand the different types of drug tests and how long drugs stay in your system to prepare for a Target drug test. The most common types of drug tests are urine, blood, saliva, and hair tests. The detection window varies depending on the type of drug and how frequently it is used. Here is a basic overview of detection windows:
| Type of Drug | Urine Detection Window | Blood Detection Window | Saliva Detection Window | Hair Detection Window |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marijuana | Up to 30 days | Up to 2-3 days | Up to 24 hours | Up to 90 days |
| Cocaine | Up to 4 days | Up to 24 hours | Up to 2-3 days | Up to 90 days |
| Heroin | Up to 4 days | Up to 12 hours | Up to 2-3 days | Up to 90 days |
| Amphetamines | Up to 4 days | Up to 24 hours | Up to 2-3 days | Up to 90 days |
Keep in mind that detection times may vary depending on the individual’s metabolism and other factors. It’s always best to err on the side of caution and assume a longer detection window when preparing for a drug test.
Drug Testing and Legalization of Marijuana
As marijuana becomes legal in more and more states, drug testing policies have become a hot topic of discussion. Target is one of many employers that require drug testing as a condition of employment. But what drug test does Target use, and does it test for marijuana?
- What Drug Test Does Target Use?
- Does Target Drug Test for Marijuana?
- The Legalization of Marijuana and Drug Testing
To answer these questions, we need to understand a bit about drug testing in general.
There are several types of drug tests, but the most common tests for the presence of drugs in a person’s urine, blood, or hair. Urine tests are the most common type of drug test, as they are inexpensive and easy to administer.
What Drug Test Does Target Use?
Target uses a standard five-panel drug test, which tests for the five most commonly abused drugs:
- Cocaine
- Opiates (including heroin, morphine, and codeine)
- PCP (Phencyclidine)
- Amphetamines and Methamphetamines
- THC (Marijuana)
This means that if you use any of these drugs, they will show up on a drug test. It’s important to note that while five-panel tests are standard, some employers may use tests that look for more than just these five drugs.
Does Target Drug Test for Marijuana?
Yes, Target’s five-panel drug test includes testing for THC, the psychoactive compound in marijuana. This means that if you use marijuana, it will show up on the drug test and could potentially disqualify you from getting the job.
The Legalization of Marijuana and Drug Testing
As more and more states legalize marijuana for both medical and recreational use, many employers are rethinking their drug testing policies. Some companies have stopped testing for marijuana altogether, while others have raised the threshold for what is considered a positive result.
| State | Year Marijuana Legalized | Employment Laws Regarding Marijuana |
|---|---|---|
| California | 2016 | Employers cannot discriminate against employees who use marijuana recreationally |
| Colorado | 2012 | Employers can still drug test for marijuana and take action against employees who test positive |
| Oregon | 2014 | Employers can still drug test for marijuana and take action against employees who test positive |
It’s important to note that while marijuana may be legal in your state, your employer can still have a drug testing policy that prohibits its use. It’s always a good idea to check with your employer before using any drugs, legal or otherwise, to ensure that you’re not violating any company policies.
In conclusion, Target uses a standard five-panel drug test that includes testing for marijuana. As more states legalize marijuana, employers are rethinking their drug testing policies, but it’s always important to be aware of your company’s policy before using any drugs.
False Positives in Drug Testing
Drug testing is a necessary requirement for employers, athletes, and other organizations to ensure that their members are not using any illegal or banned substances. However, one of the biggest concerns with drug testing is the possibility of false positives. False positives occur when a drug test shows that an individual has taken drugs, even though they have not. This can lead to serious consequences, including loss of a job or a ruined reputation.
- Over-the-Counter Medications: One of the most common causes of false positives is over-the-counter medications. Many cold and allergy medications contain ingredients that can trigger a positive result in a drug test. These include ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, and phenylephrine, which can be found in decongestants and other medications.
- Prescription Medications: Prescription medications can also cause false positives. For example, antidepressants can cause a positive result for amphetamines, while anti-anxiety medications can cause a positive result for benzodiazepines.
- Dietary Supplements: Some dietary supplements can also cause false positives. For example, products containing hempseed oil or cannabidiol (CBD) can cause a positive result for marijuana.
In order to avoid false positives, it is important to disclose any medications or supplements that you are taking before a drug test. This can help the laboratory to determine if any of the substances in your system are the result of medication use, rather than drug use.
If you do receive a false positive result, it is important to follow up with the laboratory and request a retest. It is also advisable to seek legal advice if the false positive has resulted in loss of employment or other adverse consequences.
Tips to Avoid False Positives
- Disclose all medications and supplements before the drug test
- Avoid taking any new medications or supplements prior to the test
- Choose a reputable laboratory with experience in drug testing
- Request a retest if you receive a positive result and believe it to be false
Common False Positive Triggers
Some commonly reported false positive triggers for drug tests include:
| Drug | False Positive Trigger |
|---|---|
| Amphetamines | Antidepressants, decongestants, allergy medications |
| Cocaine | Local anesthetics, cold medications |
| Opiates | Poppy seeds, pain medications, cough suppressants |
| Marijuana | Hempseed oil, CBD products |
Overall, false positives in drug testing can be a serious issue, but they can be avoided by proper disclosure of medication and supplement use, as well as choosing a reputable laboratory and requesting a retest. It is important to prioritize honesty and transparency in drug testing, in order to protect yourself from false positives and their serious consequences.
The Ethics of Drug Testing in School Athletics
Drug testing in school athletics has been a controversial issue for many years. While some argue that it is necessary to ensure a level playing field and protect the health and safety of student-athletes, others view it as an invasion of privacy and an infringement on individual rights. With a growing number of schools implementing drug testing programs, it is crucial to consider the ethical implications of these policies.
Pros and Cons of Drug Testing in School Athletics
- Pros: Supports a Drug-Free Environment, Protects Health and Safety of Student-Athletes, Ensures Fair Play
- Cons: Invasions of Privacy, False Positives, Costly and Time-Consuming, May Not Deter Drug Use
The Importance of Consent and Confidentiality
For drug testing to be ethically sound, it is crucial that the student-athletes and their parents give informed consent. The athletes must be fully aware of the consequences of participating in the program, and given the option to refuse. Secondly, confidentiality is critical in any drug testing program. Results should be kept private and not disclosed to anyone other than those with legitimate access to such information, such as coaches, trainers, or school administrators. Finally, if a student-athlete tests positive for drugs, they should be given appropriate support, counseling, and a chance to appeal.
Drug Testing Methods Used by Target
Target uses a urine drug test to detect the presence of drugs in an individual’s system. Urine drug testing is the most common method because it is non-invasive and cost-effective. The urine sample is screened for a range of controlled substances, including marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, and opiates. Then, if the initial screening test is positive, a confirmation test is conducted to rule out the possibility of a false positive. This confirmation test is typically a gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) test, which is very accurate and reliable.
| Drug | Testing Cutoff Levels |
|---|---|
| Marijuana (THC) | 50 ng/mL |
| Cocaine | 150 ng/mL |
| Amphetamines | 500 ng/mL |
| Opiates (Codeine, Morphine) | 2000 ng/mL |
It is noteworthy that a urine drug test is not foolproof. Certain substances, such as synthetic marijuana, may evade detection or produce false negatives. In addition, there is a great deal of debate about whether drug testing accurately reflects drug use and abuse among high school athlete populations.
FAQs: What Drug Test Does Target Use?
1. What type of drug test does Target use?
Target typically uses a urine drug test for pre-employment drug screening.
2. What drugs does Target test for?
Target’s pre-employment drug test checks for a range of illegal substances, including marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and PCP.
3. When will I be drug tested?
You will be asked to take the drug test after receiving a job offer from Target.
4. Will I be drug tested again in the future?
Target reserves the right to drug-test you again if they have reasonable suspicion that you are using drugs, or after a workplace accident.
5. What happens if I fail the drug test?
If you fail the drug test, Target will revoke your job offer.
6. Can I refuse to take the drug test?
If you refuse to take the drug test, Target will consider it a failed test and revoke your job offer.
7. How soon will I receive my drug test results?
Drug test results usually take between 24-48 hours to process.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for taking the time to read about what drug test Target uses. It’s important to understand the process of pre-employment drug screening, and knowing what to expect can help alleviate any concerns you may have. Remember, honesty is the best policy, and abstaining from drug use is the safest way to ensure a successful drug test. Don’t hesitate to reach out to Target HR if you have any further questions about their drug testing policies. Thanks for stopping by and come back soon!