Oral Fluid (Saliva) Drug Testing Services

Oral Fluid (Saliva) Drug Testing Services

A Modern Option for Detecting Recent Drug Use

Oral fluid drug testing, commonly referred to as saliva testing, is an​ increasingly utilized method for workplace drug testing in both regulated​ and non-regulated environments. This testing method is valued for its​ non-invasive collection process, ease of administration, and effectiveness​ in identifying recent drug use.

NMS Screening & Compliance provides professionally administered oral fluid​ drug testing services designed to support workplace safety, regulatory​ compliance, and timely decision-making.

Oral Fluid Drug Testing Overview

Oral fluid drug testing detects the presence of drugs and drug metabolites​ in saliva. Because substances are typically detectable in oral fluid shortly​ after use, this method is often used to identify recent exposure rather than​ historical use.

Collection is performed under direct observation, without the need for​ specialized facilities, making oral fluid testing a practical option for​ on-site testing programs.

Common Uses for Oral Fluid Testing

Oral fluid testing is commonly used for:

• Non-DOT workplace drug testing programs.
• Post-incident testing (where permitted by law).
• Reasonable suspicion testing.
• Situations where observed, non-invasive collection is preferred.

Program suitability depends on regulatory requirements, company policy, and​ applicable state laws.

Benefits of Oral Fluid Drug Testing

Non-Invasive and Convenient: Collection requires only a saliva sample and can be conducted on-site with​ minimal privacy concerns.

Detection of Recent Drug Use: Oral fluid testing is effective for identifying recent drug use, making it​ useful in situations requiring timely assessment.

Observed Collection: Because samples are collected under direct observation, the risk of​ tampering or substitution is significantly reduced.

Regulatory Considerations and State Law Awareness

Oral fluid testing is permitted in many workplace testing programs;​ however, state laws governing its use vary. Certain states impose specific​ requirements related to specimen type, employee notification, or​ confirmatory testing.

For federally regulated employers, oral fluid testing is now recognized​ under DOT regulations, but implementation depends on laboratory​ certification, program configuration, and employer readiness. Employers must​ ensure that oral fluid testing is used only where permitted and administered​ in accordance with applicable rules.

NMS Screening & Compliance assists employers in navigating both federal​ guidance and state-specific requirements to ensure that oral fluid testing programs are implemented correctly and in compliance.

Laboratory Confirmation and Defensibility

As with other workplace drug testing methods, non-negative oral fluid test​ results require laboratory confirmation to ensure accuracy and​ defensibility. Confirmatory testing is conducted by certified laboratories​ using established scientific standards and includes Medical Review Officer​ (MRO) oversight when required.

NMS OnBoard™: Centralized Oral Fluid Testing Management

NMS Screening & Compliance supports oral fluid drug testing programs​ through NMS OnBoard™, a secure, cloud-based, mobile-enabled platform​ that centralizes testing workflows and documentation. Through NMS​ OnBoard™, employers can track oral fluid test activity, monitor collection​ status, and maintain secure records across locations and jurisdictions. The​ platform supports consistent program administration and integrates with​ broader screening services, helping organizations manage oral fluid testing​ programs efficiently while maintaining visibility and compliance with​ applicable state requirements.

Why Choose NMS Screening & Compliance for Oral Fluid Testing?

• Regulatory Expertise: Ongoing monitoring of federal guidance and​ state law requirements.
• Custom Solutions: Oral fluid testing programs tailored to your​ operational needs and legal environment.
• Nationwide Coverage: Reliable testing services available across​ multiple states and locations.
• Comprehensive Services: Integration with lab-based testing,​ instant screening, and broader drug and alcohol testing programs.
• Expert Guidance: Practical support for policy development, program​ design, and compliance management.