Pre-employment and occupational well being screenings usually contain urinalysis as an ordinary process to evaluate a person’s well being and health for obligation. These exams are usually performed by third-party laboratories contracted by employers or occupational well being suppliers. Outcomes are then reviewed by medical professionals who decide suitability for a particular position based mostly on established standards and related laws.
This course of performs a vital position in guaranteeing office security and minimizing potential dangers related to sure job features. It additionally protects employers from legal responsibility and contributes to a more healthy workforce. Traditionally, such screenings have developed from fundamental checks for illicit substances to extra complete analyses that assess varied well being markers. This evolution displays a rising understanding of the interaction between particular person well being and office efficiency.
The specifics of testing protocols, relevant laws, and consequence interpretation are crucial subjects warranting additional exploration. Understanding these points ensures compliance and facilitates a clear and knowledgeable strategy to occupational well being practices.
1. Third-party labs
Third-party laboratories play a pivotal position within the drug testing course of for WorkFit applications in Albany, NY. Understanding their involvement is important for greedy the general framework of occupational well being screenings.
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Accreditation and Certification
Respected third-party labs preserve accreditations from organizations just like the Faculty of American Pathologists (CAP) and certifications underneath the Medical Laboratory Enchancment Amendments (CLIA). These credentials signify adherence to rigorous high quality requirements and make sure the accuracy and reliability of take a look at outcomes. Selecting an accredited lab is paramount for authorized defensibility and sustaining the integrity of the WorkFit program.
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Chain of Custody Procedures
Strict chain of custody protocols are adopted from the second of pattern assortment to the ultimate reporting of outcomes. This meticulous documentation ensures the pattern’s integrity and prevents tampering or contamination, which is essential for sustaining the validity of the testing course of and mitigating authorized challenges.
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Testing Methodologies and Panels
Third-party labs make the most of a wide range of testing methodologies, together with immunoassay and gasoline chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), relying on the particular drug panel required by the employer. Completely different job roles could necessitate completely different panels, and understanding the capabilities of the chosen lab is significant for assembly particular program necessities. For instance, a transportation firm could require a extra complete panel than an office-based enterprise.
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Reporting and Interpretation
Labs present detailed reviews that embrace each quantitative and qualitative outcomes. These reviews are usually reviewed by a Medical Evaluation Officer (MRO) who interprets the findings and communicates them to the employer. The MRO performs a crucial position in guaranteeing correct interpretation and adherence to related laws. This complete reporting course of permits for knowledgeable decision-making concerning a person’s suitability for a particular position.
The involvement of third-party labs gives objectivity and experience within the drug testing element of WorkFit applications. Their adherence to stringent requirements and established protocols ensures the reliability and defensibility of the outcomes, contributing to a safer and extra productive work atmosphere in Albany, NY.
2. Contracted Collectors
Contracted collectors signify a crucial hyperlink within the chain of custody for WorkFit urine exams in Albany, NY. These people, usually employed by third-party directors or immediately by assortment websites, are accountable for the direct interplay with people present process testing. Their position ensures correct pattern assortment procedures are adopted, sustaining the integrity and legality of the method. This operate immediately addresses the “who” performs the gathering side of WorkFit testing. A breakdown on this course of can compromise all the screening, resulting in authorized challenges or inaccurate outcomes. For instance, improper labeling or insufficient sealing of a pattern can result in its rejection by the testing laboratory, necessitating a retest and doubtlessly delaying employment onboarding.
The significance of contracted collectors extends past the bodily act of assortment. They’re additionally accountable for verifying the person’s identification, guaranteeing adherence to privateness protocols, and explaining the testing course of. This contains offering clear directions for pattern provision and answering any questions the person could have, whereas sustaining an expert and respectful demeanor. Moreover, collectors preserve exact documentation, together with date and time of assortment, guaranteeing a transparent and unbroken chain of custody. This meticulous record-keeping is important for authorized compliance and ensures the admissibility of outcomes ought to any disputes come up. Take into account a situation the place a candidate challenges a constructive take a look at consequence; correct documentation by the collector, demonstrating adherence to protocol, turns into essential proof supporting the validity of the take a look at.
Understanding the position of contracted collectors supplies essential perception into the operational mechanics of WorkFit testing. Their adherence to protocol and professionalism is prime for guaranteeing the accuracy, reliability, and authorized defensibility of the outcomes. This in the end contributes to the efficacy of the WorkFit program in selling office security and well being in Albany, NY. Failure to keep up these requirements can undermine all the testing course of, impacting each employers and staff. Due to this fact, deciding on respected assortment websites and guaranteeing correct coaching of contracted collectors is paramount for the profitable implementation of WorkFit applications.
3. Licensed Professionals
Certification performs a vital position in guaranteeing the integrity and reliability of WorkFit urine exams in Albany, NY. A number of key professionals concerned within the course of should preserve particular certifications to make sure compliance with laws and greatest practices. This certification requirement immediately addresses the “who” within the testing course of, establishing {qualifications} and accountability. For instance, Medical Evaluation Officers (MROs) should be licensed physicians with specialised coaching in substance abuse and office drug testing. Their certification ensures they possess the experience to interpret take a look at outcomes precisely and tackle any potential medical explanations for constructive findings. Equally, collectors working for licensed assortment websites endure rigorous coaching and preserve certifications demonstrating their competence in correct assortment procedures, chain of custody protocols, and dealing with of delicate info.
The requirement for licensed professionals safeguards the accuracy and authorized defensibility of WorkFit take a look at outcomes. Take into account a situation the place a take a look at result’s challenged in court docket. The certification of the collector and the MRO turns into essential proof in establishing the validity of the testing course of. With out these certifications, the outcomes might be deemed inadmissible, jeopardizing the employer’s place. Moreover, licensed professionals contribute to sustaining the confidentiality and privateness of people present process testing, which is important for moral and authorized compliance. Their understanding of HIPAA laws and adherence to strict protocols shield delicate medical info and guarantee people’ rights are revered all through the method. For example, a licensed collector understands the significance of sustaining a safe and personal atmosphere for pattern assortment and adheres to strict procedures for labeling and dealing with specimens.
In abstract, the involvement of licensed professionals is prime to the integrity and reliability of WorkFit urine exams. Their certifications validate their experience, guarantee adherence to greatest practices, and contribute to the authorized defensibility of the outcomes. This deal with certified personnel in the end strengthens the efficacy of the WorkFit program in selling office security and well being in Albany, NY, whereas upholding moral and authorized requirements.
4. Designated Services
Designated amenities play a vital position in sustaining the integrity and legality of WorkFit urine exams in Albany, NY, immediately impacting the “who” conducts these exams. These amenities present a managed and safe atmosphere for pattern assortment, adhering to strict protocols and laws. This managed setting minimizes the potential for contamination or tampering, guaranteeing the reliability and accuracy of take a look at outcomes. The designation signifies compliance with particular requirements, usually together with certifications and accreditations. For instance, a delegated facility would possibly require certification by a acknowledged group specializing in occupational well being companies, guaranteeing adherence to business greatest practices. A facility missing correct designation may jeopardize the validity of the take a look at outcomes, doubtlessly resulting in authorized challenges and inaccurate assessments of a person’s health for obligation. Take into account a situation the place a pattern is collected in an unsecured location; the chain of custody might be compromised, resulting in questions in regards to the pattern’s integrity and the reliability of the outcomes.
The connection between designated amenities and the people performing the exams is integral. Collectors working inside these amenities endure particular coaching and cling to established protocols. The power’s designation usually dictates the {qualifications} and certifications required for collectors, guaranteeing competency and professionalism. Moreover, these amenities preserve correct tools and provides essential for correct pattern assortment, storage, and transportation. This standardized strategy minimizes variability and ensures consistency throughout all WorkFit exams performed inside the community. For example, a delegated facility ensures correct temperature management for storing samples, stopping degradation and sustaining their integrity for correct testing. A facility missing such controls may compromise the pattern’s high quality, resulting in inaccurate outcomes and potential authorized issues.
In abstract, designated amenities function a crucial element of the WorkFit testing course of in Albany, NY. Their adherence to strict requirements and protocols immediately impacts the standard and reliability of take a look at outcomes. Understanding the position of those amenities supplies essential context for comprehending the “who” behind WorkFit testing, highlighting the significance of managed environments and licensed personnel in guaranteeing this system’s efficacy and authorized defensibility. Failure to make the most of designated amenities can undermine all the testing course of, jeopardizing office security and doubtlessly resulting in authorized and moral challenges. Due to this fact, employers should prioritize using designated amenities to uphold the integrity of the WorkFit program and promote a secure and wholesome work atmosphere.
5. Not WorkFit Immediately
Clarifying that WorkFit doesn’t immediately conduct urine exams is essential for understanding the general course of and the roles of assorted events concerned. WorkFit features as a program framework, setting requirements and targets for office well being and security. Nonetheless, the precise testing course of depends on a community of exterior companions, together with third-party laboratories, designated assortment websites, and licensed professionals. This separation of duties ensures objectivity, maintains compliance with laws, and protects the integrity of this system. For example, if WorkFit itself performed the exams, there might be issues about potential conflicts of curiosity and the impartiality of outcomes. Outsourcing to unbiased entities strengthens this system’s credibility and authorized defensibility.
This decentralized strategy has vital sensible implications. Employers collaborating in WorkFit should set up relationships with accredited laboratories and certified assortment websites. Understanding this distinction clarifies the employer’s duty in deciding on compliant companions and guaranteeing adherence to all relevant laws. Selecting an unqualified supplier may jeopardize the validity of the take a look at outcomes and expose the employer to authorized challenges. For instance, if an employer contracts with a laboratory missing correct certifications, the outcomes is likely to be inadmissible in court docket, undermining any employment choices based mostly on these outcomes. Moreover, understanding the roles of various events facilitates communication and streamlines the testing course of. Employers can successfully coordinate with assortment websites and laboratories, guaranteeing environment friendly scheduling, correct dealing with of samples, and well timed reporting of outcomes.
In abstract, recognizing that WorkFit doesn’t immediately conduct urine exams is important for navigating the complexities of office drug testing in Albany, NY. This understanding clarifies the roles and obligations of assorted stakeholders, strengthens this system’s integrity, and ensures compliance with related laws. Failure to know this elementary side can result in operational inefficiencies, authorized vulnerabilities, and in the end, compromise the effectiveness of the WorkFit program in selling office security and well being.
6. HIPAA Compliance
HIPAA compliance varieties a crucial element of WorkFit urine testing procedures in Albany, NY, immediately influencing who can legitimately conduct these exams and the way outcomes are managed. The Well being Insurance coverage Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) establishes stringent pointers for shielding delicate affected person well being info, together with drug take a look at outcomes. Consequently, any entity concerned within the testing processfrom assortment websites and laboratories to medical assessment officersmust adhere to those laws. This compliance mandates strict protocols for dealing with, storing, and transmitting take a look at outcomes, guaranteeing confidentiality and stopping unauthorized entry. Failure to adjust to HIPAA laws exposes organizations to vital penalties, together with substantial fines and authorized repercussions. For instance, a laboratory transmitting take a look at outcomes with out correct encryption may face sanctions for breaching affected person confidentiality. This stringent regulatory oversight immediately impacts the “who” in WorkFit testing by limiting participation to entities demonstrating demonstrable HIPAA compliance.
The sensible significance of HIPAA compliance inside the context of WorkFit testing turns into evident in a number of eventualities. Take into account pre-employment screening: an applicant’s take a look at outcomes should be dealt with confidentially, shared solely with licensed personnel inside the hiring firm. HIPAA compliance dictates that the outcomes can’t be disclosed to different staff or exterior events with out express consent. Equally, in post-accident testing, HIPAA laws shield the worker’s medical info, guaranteeing confidentiality and limiting entry to related personnel concerned within the investigation and case administration. A breach in HIPAA compliance may result in authorized motion and reputational injury for the employer. One other instance entails ongoing monitoring applications for safety-sensitive positions. HIPAA compliance ensures that take a look at outcomes are securely saved and accessed solely by licensed personnel, sustaining confidentiality and defending the worker’s privateness rights. This stringent oversight is crucial for sustaining belief and guaranteeing the moral dealing with of delicate medical information.
In conclusion, HIPAA compliance is just not merely a regulatory hurdle however an integral element of moral and legally sound WorkFit testing practices. It dictates who can take part within the course of, how information is managed, and in the end, safeguards the privateness rights of people present process testing. Understanding the implications of HIPAA compliance inside the context of WorkFit ensures accountable dealing with of delicate medical info, protects each employers and staff from authorized dangers, and reinforces this system’s general integrity in selling office security and well being in Albany, NY. Failure to prioritize HIPAA compliance undermines the moral basis of WorkFit and may result in extreme penalties, jeopardizing this system’s credibility and eroding belief in office well being initiatives.
7. Employer Designated
The “employer designated” side of WorkFit urine testing in Albany, NY, holds vital weight in figuring out who conducts these exams. Employers bear the duty for choosing the particular third-party directors (TPAs), assortment websites, and laboratories utilized inside the WorkFit framework. This designation establishes a direct hyperlink between the employer’s decisions and the entities accountable for executing the testing course of. This connection has profound implications for authorized compliance, information privateness, and the general integrity of this system. Basically, the employer’s choice dictates which particular organizations and people in the end accumulate and analyze worker samples. Selecting a non-compliant TPA or laboratory may expose the employer to authorized challenges and compromise the validity of take a look at outcomes. For example, if an employer designates a group website identified for lax chain-of-custody procedures, the integrity of all the testing course of might be questioned, doubtlessly resulting in authorized disputes and jeopardizing office security efforts.
The significance of the “employer designated” element extends past mere logistical concerns. It displays the employer’s dedication to due diligence in deciding on respected and certified companions for WorkFit testing. Thorough vetting of potential TPAs and laboratories is important to make sure compliance with all relevant laws, together with HIPAA and related state legal guidelines. Moreover, the employer’s designation influences the particular testing protocols employed. Completely different laboratories could make the most of completely different testing panels or cutoff ranges for particular substances. The employer’s selection, subsequently, immediately impacts the scope and sensitivity of the testing program. Take into account an employer within the transportation business requiring a extra stringent drug testing panel in comparison with an office-based enterprise. The employer’s designation ensures the chosen laboratory can accommodate these particular necessities. This customization permits employers to tailor their WorkFit applications to the particular wants and dangers related to their business and job features.
In conclusion, understanding the importance of the “employer designated” component is essential for navigating the complexities of WorkFit testing. This designation immediately influences who conducts the exams, shaping authorized compliance, information privateness practices, and the general effectiveness of this system. Employers should train due diligence in deciding on certified and respected companions, guaranteeing adherence to all laws and tailoring testing protocols to their particular wants. Failure to understand the load of this duty can compromise the integrity of the WorkFit program, expose employers to authorized dangers, and in the end undermine efforts to advertise a secure and wholesome work atmosphere in Albany, NY. A well-informed strategy to “employer designation” strengthens this system’s effectiveness and reinforces its position in fostering accountable office well being practices.
8. Occupational Well being Suppliers
Occupational well being suppliers signify a vital hyperlink in understanding “who does the urine take a look at for WorkFit Albany NY.” These suppliers usually function intermediaries between employers in search of to implement WorkFit applications and the laboratories and assortment websites that conduct the precise testing. Their position encompasses a variety of companies, from coordinating testing logistics to making sure compliance with related laws, making them a central level of contact for employers navigating the complexities of office drug testing. Understanding their operate clarifies the general testing panorama and helps employers successfully handle the method.
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Coordination and Logistics
Occupational well being suppliers streamline the testing course of by dealing with scheduling, coordinating with assortment websites, and managing the stream of knowledge between employers and laboratories. This centralized strategy simplifies logistics for employers, notably these with massive workforces or a number of areas. For instance, a supplier would possibly handle the scheduling of pre-employment drug exams for all new hires, guaranteeing a clean and environment friendly onboarding course of. This coordination minimizes administrative burden and ensures well timed completion of testing necessities.
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Compliance and Regulatory Steering
Occupational well being suppliers possess experience in navigating the complicated regulatory panorama surrounding office drug testing. They guarantee adherence to federal laws, equivalent to HIPAA, and state-specific necessities, safeguarding each employers and staff from authorized pitfalls. For example, a supplier can information employers on correct chain-of-custody procedures, guaranteeing the integrity and admissibility of take a look at ends in authorized proceedings. This steering is essential for mitigating authorized dangers and sustaining the credibility of the WorkFit program.
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Medical Evaluation Officer (MRO) Companies
Many occupational well being suppliers provide Medical Evaluation Officer (MRO) companies. MROs are licensed physicians who assessment laboratory outcomes, guaranteeing accuracy and investigating any potential medical explanations for constructive findings. This significant step protects worker rights and ensures truthful and correct interpretation of take a look at outcomes. An MRO would possibly contact a person with a constructive consequence to inquire about prescription drugs or different medical circumstances that would clarify the discovering. This course of safeguards in opposition to false positives and ensures due course of for workers.
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Training and Coaching
Some occupational well being suppliers provide instructional sources and coaching applications for employers and staff concerning office drug testing insurance policies and procedures. This instructional element promotes transparency and understanding, fostering a tradition of security and duty. For instance, a supplier would possibly conduct coaching periods for supervisors on recognizing indicators of impairment or managing cheap suspicion testing eventualities. This proactive strategy strengthens office security efforts and minimizes potential conflicts or misunderstandings.
In abstract, occupational well being suppliers play a multifaceted position in WorkFit urine testing in Albany, NY. They act as central coordinators, compliance consultants, and educators, guaranteeing the graceful, legally sound, and moral implementation of this system. Their involvement considerably impacts the effectivity, accuracy, and general integrity of the testing course of, underscoring their significance within the “who does the urine take a look at” equation. By understanding the scope of their companies, employers can successfully leverage their experience to optimize WorkFit applications and foster safer, more healthy workplaces.
Continuously Requested Questions
This FAQ part addresses frequent inquiries concerning WorkFit urine testing procedures in Albany, NY, offering readability on the method and addressing potential issues. Understanding these points is essential for each employers implementing this system and people present process testing.
Query 1: Who determines the particular substances screened for in a WorkFit urine take a look at?
The employer, in session with authorized counsel and occupational well being professionals, determines the particular drug panel utilized in WorkFit testing. Concerns embrace business laws, job necessities, and particular office security issues. This tailor-made strategy ensures the testing program aligns with the group’s explicit wants and danger profile.
Query 2: What occurs if a person refuses to take part in a WorkFit urine take a look at?
Refusal to take part in a WorkFit take a look at can have varied penalties relying on the employer’s insurance policies and relevant collective bargaining agreements. Penalties could vary from disqualification for employment consideration to disciplinary motion for present staff. Clear communication of those penalties beforehand is essential.
Query 3: How are the confidentiality and privateness of take a look at outcomes protected?
Stringent protocols, ruled by HIPAA laws, make sure the confidentiality of take a look at outcomes. Outcomes are securely transmitted to designated personnel inside the employer group and entry is restricted to licensed people. Third-party laboratories and assortment websites are additionally sure by HIPAA, safeguarding delicate medical info.
Query 4: What occurs if a WorkFit take a look at yields a constructive consequence?
A Medical Evaluation Officer (MRO) opinions all constructive outcomes. The MRO could contact the person to debate potential medical explanations or prescription drugs that would account for the consequence. Based mostly on the MRO’s evaluation, the employer receives a verified consequence, which informs subsequent actions in accordance with firm coverage and relevant laws.
Query 5: How is the accuracy and reliability of WorkFit urine exams ensured?
WorkFit testing depends on accredited laboratories using rigorous testing methodologies and strict chain-of-custody procedures. This ensures the integrity and accuracy of samples and outcomes. Moreover, licensed professionals conduct all points of the method, from pattern assortment to consequence interpretation, additional reinforcing the reliability of this system.
Query 6: The place can people present process testing discover further info concerning particular procedures and insurance policies?
People ought to seek the advice of their employer’s human sources division or the designated occupational well being supplier for detailed info concerning particular WorkFit testing procedures, insurance policies, and their rights all through the method. This direct communication ensures readability and addresses particular person issues.
Understanding these key points of WorkFit testing promotes transparency and reinforces this system’s dedication to sustaining secure and wholesome work environments. Open communication and adherence to established protocols are important for the profitable implementation and moral software of WorkFit in Albany, NY.
Additional exploration of particular regulatory necessities, testing methodologies, and greatest practices can present a extra complete understanding of the WorkFit program.
Ideas for Navigating WorkFit Urine Testing in Albany, NY
Efficiently navigating the WorkFit urine testing course of requires consciousness of key points, impacting each employers implementing this system and people present process testing. The following tips present invaluable insights for guaranteeing a clean and legally compliant expertise.
Tip 1: Perceive Employer Insurance policies
Completely assessment employer insurance policies concerning WorkFit testing. These insurance policies define procedures, potential penalties of refusal or constructive outcomes, and obtainable sources for workers. This data empowers knowledgeable decision-making and clarifies expectations.
Tip 2: Confirm Laboratory Accreditation
If an employer, verify the chosen laboratory’s accreditation by means of acknowledged organizations just like the Faculty of American Pathologists (CAP) and the Medical Laboratory Enchancment Amendments (CLIA). Accreditation ensures adherence to business requirements and strengthens the authorized defensibility of take a look at outcomes.
Tip 3: Keep Correct Information
Employers should preserve meticulous data of testing procedures, together with chain-of-custody documentation, consent varieties, and take a look at outcomes. Correct record-keeping is essential for compliance with laws and defending potential authorized challenges.
Tip 4: Guarantee Confidentiality and Privateness
Adherence to HIPAA laws is paramount. Guarantee all concerned events, together with assortment websites, laboratories, and occupational well being suppliers, preserve strict confidentiality protocols to guard delicate worker medical info.
Tip 5: Talk Transparently
Open communication between employers and staff is essential. Clearly clarify testing procedures, insurance policies, and potential penalties to foster understanding and cooperation. Transparency builds belief and minimizes potential misunderstandings.
Tip 6: Make the most of Designated Services
All the time make the most of designated assortment amenities for WorkFit testing. Designated amenities adhere to particular requirements and protocols, guaranteeing correct pattern assortment and chain-of-custody procedures, safeguarding the integrity of the testing course of.
Tip 7: Seek the advice of with Authorized Counsel
Employers ought to seek the advice of with authorized counsel to make sure WorkFit testing insurance policies adjust to all relevant federal and state laws. Authorized steering minimizes potential authorized dangers and ensures the defensibility of testing procedures.
Tip 8: Respect Worker Rights
All through the WorkFit testing course of, respecting worker rights is paramount. This contains offering clear info, guaranteeing confidentiality, and adhering to due course of in case of constructive outcomes. Respectful therapy fosters a constructive work atmosphere and minimizes potential authorized disputes.
Adherence to those ideas strengthens the integrity of WorkFit applications, promotes office security, and protects the rights of all stakeholders. These proactive measures contribute to a extra productive and legally compliant work atmosphere.
These actionable steps present a robust basis for efficiently navigating the complexities of WorkFit urine testing. The concluding part will provide closing ideas and proposals for optimizing this system’s efficacy.
Conclusion
WorkFit urine testing in Albany, NY, entails a community of licensed professionals, designated amenities, and accredited laboratories working underneath strict regulatory pointers, together with HIPAA. Employers designate third-party directors and assortment websites, taking part in a vital position in guaranteeing compliance and selecting applicable testing protocols. Whereas WorkFit itself doesn’t conduct exams, its framework establishes requirements for office security and well being, emphasizing the significance of correct procedures and authorized adherence. Understanding the roles and obligations of every entity involvedfrom collectors and MROs to occupational well being providersis crucial for navigating this course of successfully. This data safeguards the integrity of this system, protects worker rights, and ensures legally defensible outcomes.
Efficient implementation of WorkFit applications requires ongoing diligence, clear communication, and dedication to greatest practices. Prioritizing accuracy, confidentiality, and moral conduct strengthens office security initiatives and fosters a tradition of duty. Additional exploration of evolving laws and developments in testing methodologies will stay essential for sustaining this system’s efficacy and adapting to future office well being and security wants. In the end, a complete understanding of WorkFit urine testing contributes to a safer, more healthy, and extra productive work atmosphere in Albany, NY.
