What is the purpose of follow-up testing for an employee?

Follow-up testing for an employee primarily aims to verify continued freedom from drugs and alcohol. This process is crucial in maintaining a safe and productive work environment, especially in workplaces where substance use can significantly impact job performance, safety, and overall health. By conducting follow-up tests, employers seek to confirm that employees remain drug and alcohol-free after an initial test or incident that raised concerns. This helps to ensure the well-being of both the employee and their coworkers, fostering a culture of accountability and safety within the organization. The focus is specifically on the individual's substance use status rather than other aspects like compliance with company policies, job performance, or employee satisfaction, which are not the primary goals of follow-up testing.