Employment testing
With 71% of employers reporting concerns about addiction-related issues in the workplace, drug testing has become an important part of managing risk in safety-critical roles.
At Cansford Labs, we understand that employment testing is about more than compliance. It is about protecting people, supporting high-trust roles and giving employers the confidence to make informed decisions.
Whether you are carrying out pre-employment screening, ongoing monitoring or testing in response to a specific concern, we provide fast, accurate results you can rely on. Our team will guide you towards the most appropriate testing approach based on your organisation, your workforce and your responsibilities.
Our hair strand and dry blood spot testing methods are non-invasive, difficult to manipulate and designed to fit around real-world employment settings with minimal disruption.
Faster results, clearer insight:
We test for an extensive and ever-growing range of substances, including alcohol, illicit drugs, prescription medications and steroids. Depending on the method used, our testing can provide insight into recent use or patterns of use over time.
This allows employers to understand risk without making assumptions or judgements, supporting fair, evidence-based decision-making.
All testing is carried out with discretion, professionalism and a clear focus on accuracy.
Our employment testing services
We offer a flexible range of employment testing options to meet different organisational needs, including:
- pre-employment testing
- random testing
- ongoing or periodic monitoring to support duty of care
Our services help organisations maintain safe working environments while treating employees with respect and consistency.
Our test types
Hair strand testing
This test provides clear insights into drug use over an indefinite period, while alcohol use can be detected for up to six months. Our segmented analysis reveals patterns over time, providing deeper insight.
Tests are able to detect a wide range of substances with just a small hair sample, it’s quick, non-invasive, and highly accurate.
PEth testing
This test detects alcohol use over the past month with unmatched sensitivity. We now include blood EtG in all PEth tests, which
reveals alcohol intake in the last 2–3 days.
Using a quick and painless dry blood spot test, we eliminate the need for venous blood collection, making the process faster, easier, and just as reliable.
Nail testing
This test provides a detailed, long-term view of drug and alcohol use, detecting substances for up to 6 months, and works by analysing substances trapped in the keratin as the nail grows.
We test for a wide range of drugs, as well as alcohol, offering a reliable alternative when hair testing isn’t possible.
DNA testing
DNA testing provides a fast, reliable way to confirm biological relationships, such as paternity, maternity, or sibling connections.
We use a simple, painless cheek swab to collect DNA, with results available in just a few days. Whether for peace of mind or official matters, DNA testing delivers clear, conclusive answers.
CDT testing
This detects heavy alcohol intake over the past 2-4 weeks by measuring Carbohydrate-Deficient Transferrin, a biomarker affected by sustained alcohol use.
CDT is tested through a venous blood sample and despite being an indicator for regular high alcohol intake, it is most effective when combined with other tests.
Innovation and integrity:
We deliver 100% of test results within 3 working days of receipt of the sample, faster than any other UK laboratory. Quotes are provided over the phone, and in many cases we can arrange a collection within 48 hours.
These efficient processes allow you to act quickly, reduce uncertainty and manage risk with confidence
Expert support at every stage:
We support you from the first conversation through to reporting and beyond. Sample collection can be carried out by your own trained staff, or arranged through our nationwide network of professional collectors.
Our collectors operate across the UK and are trained to deliver a discreet, respectful experience, whether samples are collected at a workplace, clinic or home address.
Our team is always available to answer questions, provide guidance on test selection and support you where results need to be explained in formal settings such as disciplinary hearings or tribunals.
Testimonials
From the very first time we contacted Cansford, we have always been extremely satisfied with their service. We often have to get urgent pre-employment drug tests done and the team at Cansford always comes up trumps!
