Urine point of care drug testing in London
Urine point of care (POC) drug testing is a popular workplace drug test used for mass screening of employees. The benefits include instant drug screen results in rapid time frames using MHRA certified urine cups with integrated device technology. As a result, this method of screening is now used widely for random drug screening in the workplace, including some safety critical sectors such as Network Rail. Urine drug testing has an effective drug detection window of up to 5 days*
*Dependant on several factors including frequency of drug use.
How does urine POC drug testing work?
When consumed, drugs produce specific chemical markers in the body called metabolites. The metabolites are excreted by the body through urine, and their presence can show that the drug was taken by the individual.
Urine POC drug testing is an immunoassay screening analysis. If the results show no presence of the drugs screened for, we provide a record of result stating this. If the screen produces a non-negative result, if authorised, the sample can go on for confirmation drug testing at the laboratory.
About urine point of care drug testing
When to use the urine POC drug test
Urine POC drug testing is a cost effective and a quick method of screening mass numbers of employees in a workplace. It is predominantly used for random drug testing in conjunction with a breath alcohol or saliva alcohol test.
In addition, while traditionally not used in safety critical industry, this is now shifting as many organisations have more confidence in the device technology. For example, Network Rail now use urine POC drug testing as part of their drug and alcohol test protocols.
Also, the POC urine drug test is being used increasingly for pre-employment screening. This way, organisations have the cost benefit, but also the safety net of laboratory confirmation testing if required.
Drugs we can test for in the urine POC drug test
We screen for the most common recreational and prescription drugs. Our standard workplace drug screen includes:
- Amphetamine and Methamphetamines which includes Ecstasy.
- Benzodiazepines
- Cannabis
- Cocaine
- Methadone
- Opiates
However, additional drugs are available for screening, including those required to meet Network Rail standards.
Urine POC drug testing sample collection
At the sample collection appointment, a certified collection officer will guide the donor through the test documentation, obtain and verify ID, and collect the urine sample. All of which is performed under strict chain of custody policies and procedures, to ensure sample integrity and an audit trail.
Urine is collected using tamper evident and anti-adulteration methods in secure toilet facilities.
A donor will be asked to sign consent to have their urine sample collected and screened at the appointment.
Finally, a record of result is provided to the donor and/or an authorised company representative. In the case of a non-negative screen result, *laboratory confirmation drug testing of the same sample is available if authorised.
*Additional costs apply.
Important urine POC drug testing timeframes
The urine POC drug test can effectively detect the metabolites of drugs for an average period of up to 5 days. However, this can vary greatly, depending on the individual, drug type and frequency of use. For example, metabolites of THC (cannabis) can be detected in urine for a chronic user for up to 1 month after use.
Initial screen results are provided at the appointment. If laboratory confirmation testing is authorised and needed, the same sample is split and sent to the lab. This can take another 3 to 5 working days depending on the number and type of drugs to be analysed.
If you require a longer-term drug detection window, consider a hair drug test.
The costs of urine POC drug testing in London
Urine POC drug testing costs depend on the number of donors to be tested at the same appointment. For example, the cost for an individual at a clinic location in London is £156. However, the price for urine POC testing at a workplace in London can be as little as £60 per person for multiple employees to be tested.
Prices inclusive of VAT
How to book an appointment for a urine POC drug test in London
To book a urine POC drug test in London, please call 0800 988 7107. You will be put through to a Clinical Account Manager who will help you find your nearest sample collection location in London. In addition, they will guide you through the booking and urine testing process and answer any technical questions you may have.
Head Office
Crystal Health Group
The Old Chapel
Manchester
M30 0NG