When applying for a job at Walmart, you can expect the usual hiring process. But perhaps you have wondered if you will be required to take a drug test. If so, how may it affect your application process?
Information about this can be confusing. Even current and previous Walmart employees share different experiences on drug testing. Maybe drug tests were compulsory in the past, but does Walmart drug test employees in 2022? So, what are the facts?
To clear the confusion and know what to expect for that Walmart job application of yours, find out below!
Does Walmart Drug Test Stockers?
No, Walmart does not require stockers to undergo a drug test. This includes other entry-level jobs such as cashiers and backroom staff.
Now, this does not mean stockers are free to take drugs without the concern of a drug test. There are various circumstances in which Walmart will require stockers and other entry-level staff to take a drug test.
Scenario #1: Suspicion Testing
The first scenario is if Walmart finds some ground or reason to perform a drug test on employees. For example, if suspicion arises that an employee is under the influence of drugs while on the job, a Walmart manager will direct the employee to take a drug test.
Such measures are part of Walmart’s policy as they take drug consumption during work hours very seriously. Have a look below.
Walmart’s Code of Conduct (source: Walmart)
Scenario #2: Post-Accident Testing
Walmart does drug tests for post-accident incidences. There is much activity going on in a large retailer like Walmart to keep the shelves stocked. Hence, occupational hazards are common. For example, a stocker drops a heavy box of goods and injures another worker by accident.
When an accident happens, Walmart’s policy permits drug tests to be administered to employees involved in the accident. Why? Simply because they need to know whether any illicit substances were a causing factor of the mishap.
Test Result: Failed. What Happens?
The outcome of a failed drug test depends on a case-by-case basis. However, given Walmart’s strict policy, in most cases the likelihood of termination is high.
If you are an applicant, Walmart will withdraw its offer. Conversely, both part-time and full-time employees will have their job terminated. Full-time employees may have the chance of retaining their jobs after consideration of overall performance and length of service. Ultimately, the decision rests on the supervisor.
What Kind Of Drug Test Does Walmart Use?
Walmart uses the urine test which is the most common test for drugs thanks to its cheapness and easy-to-use nature. The entire procedure is very simple. An employee will be given a small cup to collect their urine for testing which is done in a bathroom.
It is important to note that the individual cannot carry any belongings or items into the bathroom where the collection takes place. Also, if the person is suspected of sample tampering, the drug test will be considered positive.
After the cup is filled up, the urine sample will be tested for any traces of drugs. Drug test results are usually released from the lab within 1 to 2 days. Overall, the collection of the urine sample is a quick procedure, so the test would not interfere greatly with the employees’ work.
If you are interested to know more about a urine drug test procedure, you may want to check out this resource by Healthline.
Can Someone Cheat A Drug Test?
Modern urine drug tests are hard to cheat because of the many checks made by test technicians. First off, as mentioned, personal belongings or any items are disallowed in the bathroom. So that eliminates the chances of using another urine sample.
Test technicians will also scan the temperature of the urine sample. There is a temperature range that indicates if the sample is current.
Basically, cheating on a drug test is almost impossible, so it is not worth trying. If you have taken substances, and you know the result will be positive; it is best to inform your direct report and HR. Explain the situation clearly and honestly.
It certainly won’t be easy, but it is better than attempting to cheat a drug test.
What Type Of Substances Does Walmart Drug Test For?
Walmart uses a urine drug test to test for these main substances:
- Marijuana
- Cocaine
- Methamphetamines
- PCP (Pneumocystis pneumonia)
- Heroin
Does Walmart Do Pre-Employment Drug Tests?
According to former Walmart employees, pre-employment drug tests are rare. For most staff in entry-level and managerial positions, drug tests are not compulsory. They are not expected to be tested during their orientation or first day on the job.
However, there are certain departments subject to mandatory drug tests. They include:
- Sporting Goods Department
- Deli
- Pharmacy
- Auto Center
- TLE (Tire and Lube Express)
Drug tests for employees in these departments are usually conducted at orientation.
The main reason Walmart conducts drug tests for these selected departments is that they deal directly with customers. Furthermore, the Auto Center and TLE involve the use of heavy machinery and equipment. Without proper attention, using such equipment can be hazardous. Thus, Walmart’s policy is to drug test these employees.
Also, the Sporting Goods department at Walmart sells guns and ammunition. You certainly would not want an employee under the influence working at the counter.
Does Walmart Do Random Drug Testing?
In short, yes. Although it is part of Walmart’s policy to conduct random drug tests on its employees, it rarely happens. Even if it is conducted, it’ll most likely be done for employees in the departments where drug tests are mandatory in the first place.
In fact, many employees have not undergone a drug test in all their years working at Walmart. Therefore, it is safe to say that while random testing is legal, it’s unlikely you will have to go through one.
Conclusion…
For anyone considering applying at Walmart as a stocker in 2022, you can be sure a drug test won’t be necessary for the orientation. Nonetheless, do be responsible for ensuring you are not under the influence while on the job at Walmart. Remember that random drug tests can appear anytime (that’s why it’s called random).
If you find yourself required to do a drug test, now you know the basic procedure along with what to do and what to not do. Like altering a sample won’t work, coming clean would do more good.
If you know someone who works at Walmart or you work there yourself, let us know your experience with drug testing in the comments below!