Numerous grocery stores and retailers operating in the US mandate new employees to undergo a drug test prior to joining the team. Presently, drug testing is an essential component of the hiring process at establishments like Kroger, Aldi, and various others.
In case you’re contemplating joining Safeway’s workforce, you may be curious whether you’ll be required to take a drug test. To discover the answer, keep reading this article as I share what I have gathered.
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.
For most Safeway stores in the US, all newly hired personnel, including rehires, are obliged to undergo a drug test. The test is administered either on-site or at a nearby clinic, and candidates who clear the test are welcomed to join the Safeway team.
To obtain additional information on the specific Safeway stores that require drug tests, the types of drugs screened for, and other relevant details, please proceed to read on!
Does Every Safeway Drug Test?
As per statements from a number of Safeway workers, not all of the company’s US stores will conduct drug tests on all available positions.
The decision on whether or not to test for drugs may vary based on local laws in each state and store managers’ discretion. Nevertheless, all Safeway transportation employees must undergo drug testing, and drivers may be subjected to a hair drug test.
Stores in states where certain recreational drugs are legal may not be obligated to perform drug tests on all staff members, or may only need to do so for specific roles, such as drivers or pharmacists.
Does Safeway Drug Test During Orientation?
Safeway may perform drug tests either during the interview stage or by scheduling a drug test at a clinic and extending the interview process. However, this approach can differ depending on the specific Safeway store location, as some stores have the capability to conduct drug tests on-site while others do not.
What Type of Drug Test Does Safeway Conduct?
Typically, Safeway uses a saliva drug test by collecting a saliva sample via a cotton swab from the potential employee’s mouth. The sample is then screened to determine if the test has been cleared.
While certain Safeway stores may require a urine test, some Safeway employees have stated that this is typically only necessary when an employee has been injured while on the job.
Does Safeway Drug Test Their Drivers?
As transportation is considered a safety-critical role, Safeway drivers must undergo not only a drug test but also a physical examination and a driving test.
These requirements have been implemented in accordance with the guidelines of the Department of Transportation (DOT), and all Safeway stores across the US are required to adhere to these guidelines when hiring drivers.
What Types Of Drugs Does Safeway Test For?
Safeway screens for various significant drugs, including recreational drugs that are legal in the state where the test is being administered. A complete list is available for reference.
In addition, alcohol and cannabis are also tested, and the mere existence of these substances in a candidate’s sample may result in their disqualification by the administering supervisor.
However, minimal traces of alcohol, steroids, and cannabis from past use may not be considered during the evaluation process.
Will Safeway Hire Me If I Fail My Drug Test?
In the event that a potential Safeway hire fails their drug test, the company typically rejects their application. However, rejected applicants are typically permitted to reapply after a period of six months, during which time they must take a new drug test.
Safeway may randomly conduct drug tests on their employees at any given time. Should an employee fail their drug test, it may lead to the termination of their employment, although this decision is ultimately up to the manager’s discretion and the specific circumstances surrounding the failed test.
If a transportation employee fails their drug test, they may lose their job and be stripped of their DOT insurance. This is because driving under the influence of drugs goes against the safety protocols associated with a transportation role.
How Do I Pass A Drug Test At Safeway?
There are several steps that potential Safeway hires can take to prepare for their drug test. It’s important to note that even if potential employees don’t use drugs, certain prescription drugs may cause a cross-reaction that results in a false positive on a drug test.
To prepare for a drug test at Safeway, job candidates can take the following steps:
- Gargle with non-alcoholic mouthwash and use a toothbrush to scrub the inside of their cheeks. Charcoal-activated toothpaste may also help to offset drug residue in the mouth, according to a drug test website.
- Refrain from using recreational drugs or smoking until after the interview and onboarding process is complete.
The most effective way to test negative on a drug test is to abstain from using any substances until after being hired. However, individuals taking prescription drugs should consider the above suggestions to reduce the risk of a false positive result.
Does Safeway Drug Test In Canada?
Employees at Safeway in Canada are not required to take a drug test due to The Human Rights Code, which prohibits drug testing without reasonable cause, such as suspicion of impairment. If you’re interested in learning more about Safeway, you may want to check out our related articles on the Safeway dress code, employee discount, and what Safeway is.
Closing Remarks
Most Safeway stores in the US conduct drug tests on their employees and new hires, and all transportation workers are required to undergo drug testing. Safeway’s drug test covers most major illegal drugs, legal recreational drugs, and alcohol. Generally, a mouth swab test is conducted, but some locations require a urine test. Safeway Canada does not subject its employees to drug tests due to the violation of The Human Rights Code by random testing.