Can You Fail a Pre Employment Drug Test for Alcohol?

Are you worried about your upcoming pre-employment drug test? With the growing number of employers testing for drugs, many potential employees are concerned about the potential consequences of failing the test. While you may be aware of the potential to fail a drug test for illicit substances, you may be wondering if it’s possible to fail a pre-employment drug test for alcohol. In this article, we’ll explore the answer to that question and the potential repercussions of a failed drug test.

Can You Fail a Pre-Employment Drug Test Due to Alcohol?

Pre-employment drug tests are a common part of the hiring process. Employers may use them to screen out potential employees who have recently used drugs or alcohol. While the tests typically screen for drugs, some employers may also test for alcohol. It is possible to fail a pre-employment drug test due to alcohol, though the chances of doing so are low.

Alcohol is a legal substance and is not usually screened for in drug tests. However, some employers may choose to include it as part of their testing process. If an employer decides to test for alcohol, they will typically use a breathalyzer to measure the amount of alcohol in a person’s system. It is possible to fail a pre-employment drug test due to alcohol if the breathalyzer detects a high level of alcohol in the body.

What is Considered a High Level of Alcohol for Pre-Employment Testing?

The amount of alcohol that is considered a high level for pre-employment testing varies from employer to employer. Generally, the cutoff level for alcohol is 0.02%. This means that if the breathalyzer detects a level of alcohol higher than 0.02%, the person will fail the test.

It is important to note that the cutoff level for alcohol is much lower than the legal limit for driving. The legal limit for driving is 0.08%, which is four times higher than the limit for pre-employment testing. Therefore, it is unlikely that someone will fail a pre-employment drug test due to alcohol unless they have recently consumed a very large amount of alcohol.

What Happens if You Fail a Pre-Employment Drug Test Due to Alcohol?

If someone fails a pre-employment drug test due to alcohol, they may be disqualified from the job. The employer may also take other disciplinary action, such as suspending the employee or terminating their employment. It is important to note that the employer’s decision will depend on their own policies and the severity of the alcohol consumption.

Can You Refuse to Take a Pre-Employment Alcohol Test?

It is generally not recommended to refuse to take a pre-employment alcohol test. If an employer requires all job applicants to take the test, refusing to do so could result in disqualification from the job.

Alternatives to Alcohol Testing in the Pre-Employment Process

Many employers choose to use alternative methods of screening for alcohol consumption in the pre-employment process. These methods may include interviews, references, and drug tests that do not involve alcohol.

Conclusion

It is possible to fail a pre-employment drug test due to alcohol, though the chances of doing so are low. Employers typically use a breathalyzer to measure the amount of alcohol in a person’s system, and the cutoff level for alcohol is 0.02%. If someone fails a pre-employment drug test due to alcohol, they may be disqualified from the job. It is generally not recommended to refuse to take a pre-employment alcohol test, and employers may choose to use alternative methods of screening for alcohol consumption in the pre-employment process.

Few Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is a Pre Employment Drug Test?

A pre-employment drug test is a screening process employers use to test potential employees for the use of illegal drugs. This type of drug test is typically conducted before an offer of employment is made and may include a urine, saliva, or hair analysis. The purpose of pre-employment drug testing is to ensure that employers are hiring individuals who are not using illegal drugs, and to protect the safety of the workplace.

Q2. What substances are tested during a Pre Employment Drug Test?

A pre-employment drug test typically screens for the following substances: marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, opiates, PCP, and alcohol.

Q3. Can You Fail a Pre Employment Drug Test for Alcohol?

Yes, it is possible to fail a pre-employment drug test for alcohol. If a potential employee’s blood alcohol content (BAC) is higher than the legal limit, they will fail the test.

Q4. What is considered a failing BAC level?

A BAC level of 0.02% or higher is considered a failing level for a pre-employment drug test.

Q5. What happens if I fail a pre-employment drug test for alcohol?

If you fail a pre-employment drug test for alcohol, the employer will likely not offer you a job. In some cases, the employer may allow you to retake the test, but this is rare.

Q6. Are there any exceptions to the pre-employment drug test for alcohol?

Yes, there are exceptions to the pre-employment drug test for alcohol. For example, employers may choose to waive the test for certain job positions, such as those that do not have any safety requirements or those with lower levels of responsibility. Additionally, employers may choose to waive the test if they believe that the potential employee is not a risk to the workplace.

DOT Pre-employment drug testing requirements & exceptions

To conclude, it is possible to fail a pre-employment drug test for alcohol, as most employers still require applicants to undergo testing for alcohol before hiring. However, it is important to remember that the presence of alcohol in the body does not necessarily indicate that an individual is unfit for the job, as alcohol can remain in the body for a certain period of time after consumption. Furthermore, employers should ensure that any alcohol testing policies are fair and do not discriminate against any individuals.