Does Costco Drug Test? (& How To Pass It Safely)

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Since the policies for pre-employment and employee drug testing at multinational retail chains like Costco can vary, you will encounter a lot of misinformation from different sources.

If you plan to apply for a job at Costco, here is what you need to know about their drug testing policy.

Does Costco Drug Test?

Costco

Beyond all the applicable statutory drug testing requirements and regulations, Costco has implemented its drug testing policies.

These policies apply to all applicants and employees, who must comply as a condition of their employment.

If you are a potential or a current employee in any Costco warehouses, you are required to consent to drug testing by signing a consent form.

You will then be sent or transported to the designated collection site for drug testing.

Although it is not clearly stated on their drug and substance-free workplace policy of what type of drug test you will be subjected to, urine or saliva samples will most likely be used.

When is Drug Testing Done?

costco hiring process drug test

Once you have been shortlisted for a position at Costco, you are required to pass a drug test before you receive an offer for employment. This also applies if you are reapplying as a part-time or seasonal employee.

In addition to pre-employment testing, Costco will conduct on-the-job drug tests based on reasonable suspicion, especially on safety-sensitive positions.

A work-related accident that results in the damage of property or inflicts significant injury to a person could also prompt Costco to conduct a drug test as soon as practically possible following the accident.

Note: Costco reserves the right to inspect all parts and aspects of its premises for illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia. As an employee or visitor, you will be asked to cooperate in these random inspections.

What Happens During Drug Testing?

employee drug screen

Should you consent to the drug test, you will be directed to a specific laboratory or collection site where you will be required to verify your identity.

Only certified technicians are allowed to perform the collection of samples from applicants and employees.

They are trained to perform the testing procedure that meets Costco’s drug testing requirements, ensuring the accuracy and integrity of the drug testing process.

Results from the drug testing are fairly quick, and the company will contact you with the full information.

Costco might also request to have your test redone or require additional testing, depending on your results.

Which Substances Do Drug Tests at Costco Identify?

Drug Tests at Costco

The substances to be tested for are:

Alcohol screening is also conducted. For Costco’s employees, the prohibited alcohol concentration is 0.4 or greater.

For all readings between 0.02 and 0.399, the result will not be viewed as positive, and the employee will be suspended for the rest of the shift.

Note: If you are taking a prescription drug, make sure you gather all paperwork that supports your use of medication, including prescriptions. We recommend that you share these details with your employer. However, if you do not wish to disclose your medical history, you are entitled to the protection of privacy.

How to Pass a Costco Drug Test

Costco Drug Test

Regardless of the type of test you are about to face, there are things you can do to increase your chances of testing clean.

For a urine test, here are the best ways to beat the test.

  • Take plenty of water. This will increase the number of drug metabolites excreted out of the body.
  • Exercise regularly to burn fat cells and release trapped THC.
  • Use a detox kit such as toxin rid – ideal if you have several days before the test.
  • Take a detox drink – ideal if you only have a few hours before the test.

If you want to mask the signs of drug use in your saliva, stop taking any more drugs, then try the following home remedies.

  • Brush your teeth thoroughly. Pay particular attention to your gum line, under your tongue, and on the inside of your cheeks. Swirling your mouth with cleansing mouthwash also helps.
  • If you are looking for something more powerful, hydrogen peroxide is a great idea
  • Other tips include eating a fatty meal a couple of hours before your test, habitually sipping on organic cranberry juice or chewing saliva detox gum

Additional Resources