Safeway Drug Test

Does Safeway Drug Test?

So you're moving through the hiring process, and you start to wonder: Does Safeway Drug Test? No doubt, as a potential employee, you'll want to know all about what you're signing up for.

This is especially true given the shift in public opinion towards marijuana. In the United States, several states have already legalized recreational use and medical use. There are still a considerable number of states where marijuana is still completely illegal.

But don't worry!

This article will tell you everything you need to know about Safeway’s drug testing policy as of 2021.

Does Safeway Drug Test?

Yes. While not the strictest drug tester in the supermarket industry, Safeway is still known to drug test employees and potential employees.

This policy is outlined by Safeway, as the company prohibits “testing positive for a controlled substance on the job or on company premises.”Also, according to the company, these controlled substances include “all chemical substances or drugs listed in any controlled substances acts or regulations applicable under federal, state or local laws.”

When Do Safeway Drug Tests Occur?

Most commonly, Safeway drug tests for three main reasons.

The first is done to potential hires during or following an interview. This test is a quick 5-10 minute saliva test.

Saliva tests are used because they’re quick and easy, but unlike urine tests, mouth swab tests can only detect the presence of drugs from five to 48 hours. These tests also require you to refrain from consuming food or beverages ten minutes prior to specimen collection, as that can make the sample illegible and unviable.

However, the results of this test will play an important part in whether or not you’re hired, so if you take any prescription drugs, be sure to let the hiring manager know before your interview.

The second common reason why Safeway drug test is related to workplace incidents and Workman’s Compensation. This is because the company wants to ensure that drugs aren’t the reason for the request. After all, if accepted, it will give the employee benefits because they received a work-related injury or illness.

Therefore, if the employee became injured while high or intoxicated, Safeway will have the right to refuse compensation.

And finally, Safeway may drug test individuals whom they have a reasonable suspicion of, especially if an employee seems under the influence of substances while working.

Overall though, it’s important to note that Safeway does not give random drug tests to current employees, which means that as long as you don’t invoke reasonable suspicion or apply for Workman’s Compensation, you won’t be drug tested after your interview.

What Does Safeway Drug Test For?

Generally speaking, the drugs being tested for will depend on the situation.

Under reasonable suspicion, you may be tested for alcohol or other drugs, but for your interview, your saliva test will likely focus on uncovering drugs like marijuana, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, opioids, or cocaine.

However, it’s important to note that your perceptions can play a role in drug testing. If you’ve been prescribed opioids or medical marijuana, you should be sure to relay this information to your manager. While this doesn’t guarantee that you’ll still receive a job after your interview, it does help to clear up any issues with the drug test.

However, in the case of Workman’s Comp, even the presence of prescription drugs can prevent you from receiving compensation.

Final Thoughts

Safeway takes a moderately strict stance on drug testing, and you can expect to receive a drug test during or following your interview. And, while you won’t receive random tests on the job, you can expect to take a drug test if you apply for Workman’s Comp or if you’re suspected of using it on the job.