#USA #Quest Diagnostics #Secaucus #Drug Testing #fentanyl

Rising Fentanyl Positivity in U.S. Workforce

A recent report from Quest Diagnostics highlights a significant shift in substance use trends in the U.S. workforce. According to the 2025 Quest Diagnostics Drug Testing Index™, the prevalence of fentanyl positivity in random drug tests has surged to alarming levels, showcasing a worrying increase in opioid abuse among employees after pre-employment screenings.

Key Findings from the 2025 Quest Diagnostics Report

The report reveals that in 2024, employees who tested positive for fentanyl in random drug tests were over seven times more likely than those in pre-employment screenings. Specifically, the positivity rate for fentanyl in random tests was 1.13%, while only 0.14% tested positive before employment. This indicates a stark contrast in substance use patterns, suggesting that many workers may be turning to fentanyl after securing their jobs.

General Drug Testing Trends

In previous years, overall positivity rates for workplace drug testing declined slightly, with the rate reducing from 4.6% in 2023 to 4.4% in 2024. However, the notable rise in fentanyl positivity indicates a niche but potentially dangerous trend among the workforce. Other drugs, such as marijuana and cocaine, did not exhibit the same level of variability when comparing random tests to pre-employment screenings.

The Dangers of Fentanyl

Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that is significantly more potent than morphine, poses severe risks including impairment and overdose incidents. The report highlights that 60% of fentanyl-positive tests also showed the presence of other substances, with marijuana co-use doubling since 2020. Approximately 22% of employees testing positive for fentanyl also tested positive for marijuana, up from 10% four years ago. Furthermore, 16% of those positive for fentanyl were also positive for amphetamines.

Expert Commentary

Suhash Harwani, PhD, a Senior Director at Quest Diagnostics, voiced concerns regarding the escalation of fentanyl use in workplaces, emphasizing its dangers when combined with other substances. There is a growing need for employers to be vigilant about these changes in drug use patterns. Awareness and comprehensive workplace safety initiatives are critical to minimizing risks associated with drug use on the job.

Recent Overdose Trends

The report aligns with a recent CDC finding that suggests an uptick in fatalities related to drug overdoses, particularly those involving illicitly manufactured fentanyl. As of 2025, the Health and Human Services Department has added fentanyl to the drug testing panel employed in workplace drug screenings, reflecting its growing presence in the workforce.

Marijuana and Other Drug Positivity Rates

Marijuana remains the most detected substance in workplace tests, with a stability in positivity rates at 4.5%. In the context of workplace accidents, marijuana testing positivity was recorded at 7.3%, reducing slightly from the prior year. Conversely, positivity for amphetamines is on an upward trajectory, rising to 1.7%, while rates for other substances such as cocaine have remained unchanged.

Moving Forward

Quest Diagnostics urges employers to address the persistent issue of drug abuse among workers as part of their safety and health policies. The concerning rise in fentanyl positivity not only affects individual health but also poses broader risks to workplace safety and operational efficiency. Furthermore, organizations should consider implementing supportive recovery programs to function effectively in high-stakes industries.

As the conversation around substance use continues to evolve, the implications for workforce health and safety are profound. It is essential for companies to balance safety with a supportive culture that addresses drug use effectively without compromising employee well-being.

For further details and insights, the Quest Diagnostics Drug Testing Index serves as a vital resource for understanding drug usage trends within the American workforce.