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Idaho Workplace Screening Locations

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Idaho Drug-Free Workplace

Idaho has a specific statute aimed at promoting drug-free workplaces, known as the "Idaho Employer Alcohol and Drug-Free Workplace Act." The primary purpose of this act is to support employers in their efforts to eliminate substance abuse in the workplace, thereby enhancing workplace safety and productivity. It establishes voluntary guidelines for drug and alcohol testing. If these guidelines are followed, and an employee tests positive for drugs or alcohol, that employee is considered at fault, which could result in the denial of unemployment benefits due to misconduct.

The statute explicitly allows private employers to test employees or prospective employees for the presence of drugs or alcohol as a condition of hiring or continued employment. The testing must be in compliance with federal standards, specifically 42 U.S.C. section 12101. Employers are also permitted to use drug or alcohol test results conducted by third parties, such as law enforcement or hospitals, to determine employee misconduct. Importantly, the act maintains the at-will employment status, meaning it does not change the employer's right to terminate an employee at any time for any reason.

Furthermore, the statute outlines specific requirements for the collection and testing of samples to ensure accuracy and reliability. These include sanitary and private conditions for sample collection, proper instruction for those collecting samples, documentation and labeling to avoid misidentification, and adherence to scientifically accepted testing methods. Notably, drug testing must include a confirmatory test before any action can be taken by the employer based on the test results, ensuring a higher degree of accuracy.

For more detailed information, you can visit the official Idaho State Legislature website: [Section 72-1701](https://legislature.idaho.gov/statutesrules/idstat/Title72/T72CH17/SECT72-1701/), [Section 72-1702](https://legislature.idaho.gov/statutesrules/idstat/Title72/T72CH17/SECT72-1702/), and [Section 72-1704](https://legislature.idaho.gov/statutesrules/idstat/Title72/T72CH17/SECT72-1704/).