PetSmart is one of the world’s leading pet supply retailer that deals with a variety of pets from cats to dogs, and fish to reptiles. As such, they require potential employees who are responsible enough to handle their animals.
If you have plans on applying for a job at PetSmart or want some tips on how to get hired in this popular pet store, then read on! Here is what I discovered about their drug testing policy.
Does PetSmart Drug Test? PetSmart Drug Test Explained
PetSmart conducts pre-employment drug tests on its new hires as well as existing staff members especially those working with animals. Since most animals have high levels of sensitivity to certain chemicals found in illegal substances, PetSmart has a strict zero-drugs policy.
When Does PetSmart Drug Test Employees?
PetSmart can drug test at the following times:
Pre-Employment Test
If you are asked to take a drug test, it is at the discretion of your interviewing panel. You will be informed if this is necessary either during or immediately after the interview process.
Depending on their discretion, some employees may be required to go through a screening (i.e., preliminary drug test) before they can complete their orientation program and begin working at their new job.
A drug test before extending offers of employment is called a pre-employment drug test. The process of conducting this may vary depending on your interviewing panel.
Random Test
The policy on random testing varies by location. Some stores do not conduct random drug tests unless there is suspicion expressed by managers or supervisors while others like PetSmart implement them every now and then. Contact your local PetSmart store for details on its current policy on random drug testing.
Suspicion Based Test
PetSmart does not require any employees to undergo a drug test based on suspicion alone; however, some locations may administer drug tests if there is reason for concern like an incident at work. In addition, the local store may ask for a drug test if it believes there is a need to ascertain the trustworthiness of an employee.
Post Incident Test
In compliance with policy, PetSmart will ensure that its employees are not under the influence of drugs before permitting them to work after they have been involved in accidents. This would apply in cases where employees were responsible for workplace injuries or in cases where they suffered an injury themselves while on duty.
What Type Of Drugs Does PetSmart Test For?
PetSmart will test for all illegal drugs and recreational drugs, including cannabis.
If you fail your test due to medical reasons with proof, PetSmart will not hold it against you.
The presence of Cannabis in your system is grounds for immediate termination, even if the drug test is being conducted within a legal state.
PetSmart Drug Test: How Long Does It Take?
PetSmart will notify you of a drug test within one business day. You can expect a phone call or email, and the collection process takes only about twenty minutes.
Can I Refuse a Drug Test At PetSmart?
At PetSmart, you cannot refuse to take a drug test. If you do, your offer of employment or current employment will be terminated immediately.
Applicants who fail to provide a urine sample after being notified by PetSmart will have their offers rescinded immediately due to refusal of testing.
If you are currently employed at PetSmart and refuse to take a drug test following an incident, such as an accident, your employer has the right to terminate you.
What Happens if You Fail the PetSmart Drug Test?
Are you wondering what happens if you fail your drug test at PetSmart? The answer varies depending on if you are an applicant or a current employee.
Zero-tolerance for drugs for its employees
PetSmart wants a safe working environment for its employees and customers. This is why it has a strict policy on drug use for all its employees. All PetSmart employees, including part-time staff, are expected to abstain from any illegal drugs. They also need to avoid abuse of prescribed medications.
For applicants, the offer is contingent on passing the drug test
For applicants, the offer is contingent on passing a drug test. This also includes employees who have been previously employed with PetSmart and re-applies. If an applicant fails to pass the drug test, then he or she can no longer be considered for employment at that time.
Employees who fail a random drug test will be terminated
PetSmart assesses its employees for drugs when they join the workforce. To maintain safety in work areas, it runs mandatory tests to ensure all staff are clean of any illegal substances. Any employee found using such substances will be terminated without much process or recourse. There is zero-tolerance against such behavior at PetSmart and such results in immediate termination of the employee’s contract without prior notice.
Employees who fail a drug test after an accident can be sued personally
Those employees who have been on drugs and had an accident, which causes loss of life or injury to the members of the public may be subject to civil action taken against them. There are provisions for such cases in most employment contracts. This is usually covered under general liability cover, which protects companies from such liabilities.
If I Fail A Drug Test At PetSmart Can I Reapply?
Before reapplying for work with PetSmart, one should leave an appropriate amount of time between their employment termination and reapplication. One should also refrain from all drugs at this time because you will still be required to take the drug test upon reemployment.
Conclusion: Does PetSmart Drug Test?
Yes, PetSmart conducts drug tests on their existing and potential employees especially those working with animals. Most job positions in the pet supply store require you to work closely with animals, thus making it necessary to secure a drug test from them.
Failing a drug test at PetSmart will disqualify you from being considered for employment because of their zero-tolerance drugs policy. In addition, your previous employer may also be notified about your drug activities through testing results sent by PetSmart. Employees who fail or refuse to take the requested medical tests may be fired immediately.