Definition - What does Monitored Collection mean?
Monitored collection is a clinical procedure that involves a collector or designated monitor who is present in the room of an applicant and/or employee providing a urine specimen. Although a monitor does not observe the actual urination process by the subject being tested, distinct sounds and/or anomalous color, odor, and/or temperature change can suggest a tampering infraction. In some cases, a collector will appoint a technician, giving detailed instructions of the monitoring collection process accompanied with the individual’s name on the custody and control form (CCF).
SureHire explains Monitored Collection
While collectors do not observe applicants and/or employees during monitored collection testing, if a urine specimen is adulterated or tampered with then the technician is obligated to repeat the process via direct observation. Drug testing remains an indispensable aspect in deterring substance use in the workplace. Employers that adopt and promote a drug-free culture are able to leverage efficiency and productivity, boosting a company’s reputation and output, in turn, generating substantial profits.
However, many applicants and/or employees who are chronic substance users prefer to avoid employers who conduct drug testing while others resort to deceptive measures using artificial urine. Although the sale and purchase of fake urine is legal, candidates risk forfeiting employment opportunities against strict guidelines established by companies to enforce and maintain drug-free regulations. Attempts to use fake urine as a ploy to avoid positive results can impose financial constraints to employers. Primary detrimental factors can include absenteeism, high turnover rate, recurrent criminal activities (i.e. violence, theft) and excessive healthcare expenditures.
Monitored collection is an effective adjunct of standard drug screens to prevent adulterating or tampering with urine specimens. However, commercializing synthetic urine raises questions of legal loopholes to defy drug-free health and safety programs developed and maintained by employers.
