Drug Panel
A predefined group of substances tested for in a single drug screening, ranging from the standard 5-panel to expanded panels with 12 or more substances.
Key Facts
- A defined set of substances screened in a single drug test
- Standard panels: 5, 7, 10, 12, and expanded panels
- DOT requires 5-panel only — employers may choose wider panels for non-DOT
- Panels can be customized to add synthetic opioids, fentanyl, or ETG
- SAMHSA sets standard substance groups and cutoff levels
A drug panel defines the specific substances or substance categories included in a drug test. The standard 5-panel (THC, cocaine, opiates, PCP, amphetamines) is the DOT-mandated minimum. Expanded panels add categories: 7-panel adds benzodiazepines and barbiturates; 10-panel adds methadone, propoxyphene, and methaqualone; 12-panel may add oxycodone, fentanyl, and EtG (alcohol metabolite). Employers select panels based on regulatory requirements (DOT = 5-panel), industry risk profile, and drug-free workplace policy goals. Non-DOT employers have flexibility to customize panels to emerging drug threats. Each substance in the panel has SAMHSA-established screening and confirmation cutoff concentrations.
Related Services
Related Industries
50
States Covered
Need This Service?
Find certified occupational health providers offering this service in your area. Over 20,000 locations nationwide.
Simplify Occupational Health
BlueHive manages occupational health services so you can focus on your workforce.