ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the central purposes and procedures of bioassay approaches to workplace drug-use assessments, followed by a discussion of the major self-report methods and the findings they have generated. The drug testing methods are predominantly the urine-based bioassays, typically consisting of relatively inexpensive radioimmunoassays for screening, using the more expensive and highly accurate gas chromotography-mass spectrometry to confirm any positives from the initial screens. Although a variety of studies have attempted to assess the impact of drug testing on the work force, evidence of its preventive/deterrence effects are less clear-cut than generally assumed. The vulnerability of self-reports to underreporting biases seems exacerbated in the workplace, where workers may fear that admission of illicit drug use could result in disciplinary actions or even the loss of their job. The chapter presents empirical data comparing bioassay procedures with self-report methods in two different occupational groups, concluding with a discussion of implications and recommendations.
