Does McDonald’s have drug testing? (all you need to know)
One of the questions people have when applying for a job at McDonald’s is whether McDonald’s tests potential employees for drugs.
If you’re thinking of applying for a job at McDonald’s, read on below to find out if you need to take a McDonald’s drug test before you land a job!
Does McDonald’s have drug testing?
McDonald’s does not require pre-employment drug testing company-wide. Because many McDonald’s restaurants are owned by franchisees, drug testing is at the owner’s discretion. Typically, McDonald’s only conducts drug tests in the event of an accident or suspected drug use on the job.
Regarding several questions related to McDonald’s and drug testing, such as what type of panel to use, we will answer them one by one below!
When does McDonald’s conduct drug testing?
McDonald’s does not require drug testing during the hiring process at most locations, though the final decision rests with franchise owners.
However, if you have an accident on the job, McDonald’s will drug test you, as this is a requirement for workers’ compensation claims.
On top of that, once you’re an employee, McDonald’s can also do random drug testing, like most companies can, to make sure employees stay sober.
In addition, McDonald’s will also drug test you if you suspect that you have been under the influence while on the job, including signs of drug use such as dilated pupils, slurred speech or erratic behavior.
Is McDonald’s a drug-free workplace?
McDonald’s is a drug-free workplace and requires all employees to be drug-free and alcohol-free to ensure the safety and health of employees, food and customers.
Additionally, if you are found to be under the influence, you may be fired immediately as this will not be tolerated, whether you work on a franchise or company-owned facility.
However, McDonald’s will pay for the drug test for you, including paying for your travel time to and from the test collection location as well as paying for the test and review of the results themselves.
Does McDonald’s conduct drug testing at orientation?
Typically, McDonald’s does not conduct drug testing during orientation, but franchise owners and operators can require drug testing during orientation if they have such a hiring policy.
However, since the company does not have a pre-employment drug testing policy, it is up to the franchise owner whether or when these drug tests are performed, and some do require it during orientation.
Beyond that, drug testing policies can vary from store to store and from state to state.
What drug testing panels does McDonald’s use?
McDonald’s uses a typical 5-panel drug test when the company requires employees to undergo drug testing for accident-related circumstances or suspected drug use.
The 5-panel drug test is standard for many companies looking for these types of drugs.
Does McDonald’s use urine drug tests, hair samples or blood drug tests?
If you must have a drug test for McDonald’s, a urine drug test is usually required.
However, Workman’s Compensation may require a blood drug test, depending on the type of accident you were involved in and the circumstances associated with the accident.
Also, you may need to submit multiple urine samples if the first sample returned is inconclusive, or if there were other errors in the collection or laboratory process.
Unfortunately, if your urine is diluted, many companies will take that to mean you are trying to cheat a drug test and treat it as a positive test result.
What happens if you fail a drug test at McDonald’s?
If you fail a drug test as part of pre-employment with a particular franchise, you will not be offered a job.
However, the drug testing policy must clearly state that your offer of employment is based on passing a drug test.
Also, if the drug test is part of a workers’ compensation claim, you’re likely to be responsible for medical bills and related costs that McDonald’s won’t pay.
Beyond that, if you fail a drug test and are involved in an accident, you could also be sued if the accident involved other workers or customers.
How can McDonald’s employees seek help with drug or alcohol issues?
If you work at McDonald’s and have a drug or alcohol problem, you can voluntarily seek help to stay sober without repercussions.
If you discuss your drug or alcohol problem with management and seek help, McDonald’s can help with referrals to a treatment provider or counselor.
Plus, you won’t lose your job or be disciplined in any way if you ask for help yourself.
In addition to this, you will also be given sick leave for the appropriate amount of time so that you can get treatment or counseling about your drug or alcohol problems.
However, if you do not admit to a problem before being disciplined for a drug or alcohol related situation, you could be fired or suspended for that behavior.
If you want to apply for jobs, you can also check out our articles on whether McDonald’s hires at 14, does McDonald’s pay weekly wages, and McDonald’s break policy.
in conclusion
McDonald’s does not have a comprehensive standard drug testing policy, although most McDonald’s locations do not conduct pre-employment drug screenings.
Like most companies, if you have an accident on the job, you will be required to take a drug test as part of workers’ compensation and to determine who is responsible for paying the associated bills.
Additionally, if you are suspected of being under the influence at work, you will be required to undergo a drug test and will be compensated for the time you spend traveling to and from the facility.
Finally, if you do have a drug problem, you should voluntarily seek help, as this is the best way to ensure your continued employment at McDonald’s.
Plus, you can even take sick leave to deal with your drug and alcohol issues without repercussions.
