What does "pre-employment testing" refer to?

Pre-employment testing refers specifically to the mandatory drug test conducted before hiring for safety-sensitive positions. This type of testing is essential for ensuring that candidates do not have substances in their system that could impair their ability to perform duties safely, especially in roles where safety is a critical concern, such as in transportation or operations involving hazardous materials. The goal is to promote a safe workplace and minimize the risk of accidents or incidents caused by impaired judgment or coordination.

In contexts outside of pre-employment testing, other scenarios such as random drug tests during employment, tests required for promotions, or informal surveys of employee substance use do not align with the definition of pre-employment testing. Each of these alternatives serves different purposes and occurs at various stages of employment, but they do not specifically address the initial vetting process for hiring candidates into critical positions.