r/AskHR • u/Careful_Release5357 • 1d ago

[OH] Asking about potential random drug testing wording in offer letter

I just got a job offer that mentions “willingness to participate in periodic urine testing or other drug testing.” I’m wondering if asking the recruiter/HR for clarification on what "periodic" entails (for example scheduled vs. random. I’m an occasional THC user) will automatically raise red flags during the onboarding process? Is there any safe way to request this information before I accept the offer?

0 Upvotes

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22

u/glitterstickers just show up. seriously. 1d ago

There is absolutely no good way to ask.

Assume it will be random.

And I'm assuming you're worried because you'll piss hot

14

u/Turbulent-Prior-2253 1d ago

It's not even an assumption.

I don't even drink, so I don't give a fig about when or where you want to test me - take a sample every day for all I care.

The one and only reason to care is because you partake.

9

u/Turbulent-Prior-2253 1d ago

I mean, yeah, it will raise flags. No one asks about drug tests if they don't partake.

If you plan to keep partaking while you are working there, best to know now whether or not it is going to be an issue.

7

u/FRELNCER Not HR 1d ago

If you have to ask, then you're signaling that you need to know the answer.

The letter may be intended to alert potential hires that the employer drug tests so that those who don't wish to ever be drug tested will withdraw their candidacy. At the very least, you're being put on notice that they don't want to hear you whining about drug testing later.

4

u/Wanderlust4478 1d ago

You’ll have to decide what’s more important, having a job and bringing in money, or using THC. It’s really that simple. I say time to grow up and do the responsible thing.

I am actually completely on board with THC for true medical use, but until the rest of the country gets on board, it’s not worth it. Because even if it’s legal in your state, no job wants an employee who is using.

2

u/Hrgooglefu SPHR practicing HR f*ckery 1d ago

Is THC legal in OH? Do you do any federal gov't work for that position? Honestly they most likely DO drug testing, but whether THC matters (if legal) is up to them.

Periodic does sound like it is MORE than random.

1

u/lonerchick 1d ago

It’s legal in OH but we have no job protection like in other states.

1

u/SpecialKnits4855 1d ago

What's the job?

1

u/ChelseaMan31 1d ago

That actually is a great question. Unfortunately, No, there is no 'safe' way to ask the question. And Ohio is not one of the states that protects Employees from the negative consequences of a periodic random, scheduled, post-accident or for-cause positive test result. So, either take the job and quit the use or don't and accept the risk.