Pre-employment Drug Testing: Legalities and Considerations in India

Hello Seniors,

Please advise if pre-employment drug testing (screening) is legal in India?

Regards,

Hi Moez,

It depends on the type of organization and the role of the employee held there. If the candidate requirements for a particular job category involve such necessities, then drug testing during screening is advisable.

Thank you.

Hi Moez,

All rules and policies are adapted internally within the organization in order to select the right candidate for the right job. In some cases, we may consider hiring a candidate who failed a drug test, ensuring that he/she is capable of performing the desired job effectively. The decision purely depends on the type of job and the overall performance of the candidate in all interview rounds. Additionally, conducting such tests allows us to assess the candidate's medical fitness.

Regards,
Priya
Email: priyaa.vbs@gmail.com

Dear Moez,

Also, to mention, it depends on the sector you are going to work with. For example, if you'll work in sectors such as Food & Beverages, Food Retail, etc., where under the FDA Act, all employees dealing with food need to undergo a compulsory pre-employment health check-up and require a Food Handler Certificate from a medical practitioner. However, as Priya mentioned earlier, the same practice has been internally adopted and depends on the job requirements.

Thanks