First, determine if your company's drug testing is regulated by any state or federal agency. The most common example of a regulating agency is the Department of Transportation. However, additional state laws have set requirements for certain types of employees (school bus drivers, state construction contractors, etc.). It is extremely important to know if you are accountable to any higher agency when devising or revising your policy or program.

Once you've established whether your program is governed by an outside agency, here are some questions you should ask yourself to help guide you in the creation of a solid policy:

1. Who will be tested? This is the place to define which employees will be subject to testing. Will you include all employees or only those performing certain job functions?
2. When will testing occur? Every good policy lays out the various times that an individual could be called for testing. Some are as simple as pre-employment only, while others can include post-accident, reasonable suspicion and random testing.
3. What type of test will be performed? When it comes to drug tests, there are many options. From the standard 5-panel to a 10-panel plus Ecstasy, each company should consider the risks and tailor the program to suit their particular situation.
4. What type of specimen? There are many ways to conduct testing today. These options range from urine, hair, saliva, blood and sweat (also, breath for alcohol). Some of these methods have been in use longer, but that shouldn't cause you to discount the effectiveness of some of today's newer technology.
5. What are the expectations/consequences? Considerable time and effort should be given to this section of your company policy, as it provides the basic framework of how your program will work. There are many issues to consider such as second chance allowance versus no tolerance, refusal to test and shy bladder, etc. Thought given early on will ensure you are prepared for those sensitive situations and help set the expectations of your workforce.
6. What education or training will be given? There are two basic tiers of training: program managers and employees. Program managers should be well-versed in the company policy, as they are charged with the implementation and performance of the program. You may choose to give all new hires a company handbook, or perhaps your organization conducts an annual review of company policy. Either way, it is highly recommended (and sometimes required) that employees receive notice of the company policy prior to testing.