Understanding 6 and 7 Panel Drug Tests: What They Screen For and Employer Preferences

Drug testing remains a standard practice across many industries for pre-employment screening, workplace safety, and regulatory compliance. Among the various options available, 6 panel and 7 panel drug tests offer employers a middle ground between basic screening and comprehensive detection. This guide explains what these tests screen for and how employers determine which panel is appropriate for their needs.

Basics of Multi-Panel Drug Tests

Multi-panel drug tests are named according to the number of drug categories they can detect. Each "panel" represents a specific drug or drug class. These tests typically use urine samples, though blood, hair, or saliva may sometimes be collected depending on the testing purpose and timeframe of detection needed.

While 5-panel tests remain the standard for basic screening, many employers are moving toward more comprehensive options like 6 and 7 panel tests to address evolving substance use patterns.

What Does a 6 Panel Drug Test Screen For?

A 6 panel drug test typically screens for the following substances:

• Marijuana (THC)
• Cocaine
• Amphetamines/Methamphetamines
• Opiates (such as heroin, codeine, morphine)
• Phencyclidine (PCP)
• Benzodiazepines (such as Valium, Xanax)

The 6 panel test builds upon the standard 5 panel test by adding benzodiazepines, which addresses concerns about prescription drug abuse. This addition makes the 6 panel drug screen more comprehensive while remaining cost-effective for employers who don't require extensive testing.

Detection Windows for 6 Panel Tests

The detection window varies by substance:

• Marijuana: 3-30 days (depending on frequency of use)
• Cocaine: 2-4 days
• Amphetamines/Methamphetamines: 2-4 days
• Opiates: 2-4 days
• PCP: 7-14 days
• Benzodiazepines: 2-10 days (some up to 30 days)

What Do 7 Panel Drug Tests Test For?

A 7 panel drug test includes all substances in the 6 panel test plus one additional drug category. The most common addition is:

• Barbiturates (such as phenobarbital, butalbital)

Some variations of the 7 panel test might include MDMA (Ecstasy) or expand the opiates panel to include synthetic and semi-synthetic opioids like oxycodone or hydrocodone instead of barbiturates. This flexibility allows employers to customize their testing program based on specific workplace concerns.

For a more extensive screening approach, employers might consider 7 and 8 panel drug tests that can detect additional substances beyond the standard panels.

What Panel Drug Test Do Employers Use?

Employer preferences for drug testing panels vary widely based on industry requirements, job responsibilities, and company policies. When determining what panel drug test to use, employers consider several factors:

Industry-Specific Considerations

• Safety-Sensitive Industries: Transportation, aviation, nuclear power, and construction typically require more comprehensive testing (6+ panels)
• Healthcare: Often uses 7+ panel tests to screen for prescription drug abuse
• General Office Work: May use 5 or 6 panel tests
• Federal Contractors: Must follow specific guidelines, often using at least a 5 panel test

Companies in the cannabis industry face unique challenges regarding drug testing policies. While developing compliant products, many utilize custom pre-roll packaging and cones for their products while maintaining appropriate workplace safety standards that account for their industry's unique position.

Comparing Different Panel Tests

Understanding how different panel tests compare can help employers make informed decisions:

5 Panel vs. 6 Panel

The primary difference is the addition of benzodiazepines in the 6 panel test. This makes the 6 panel more effective at detecting prescription drug abuse, which has become increasingly important for many employers.

6 Panel vs. 7 Panel

The 7 panel test typically adds barbiturates or expands opioid testing. This provides more comprehensive coverage for prescription medications that may impair workplace performance or indicate substance abuse issues.

For organizations requiring even more extensive testing, options include 9 and 10 panel tests or the more comprehensive 12, 14, and 15 panel tests that screen for an expanded range of substances.

Cost Considerations

Generally, the more panels included in a test, the higher the cost. Employers must balance comprehensive screening with budget constraints:

• 5 Panel: $30-50 per test
• 6 Panel: $40-60 per test
• 7 Panel: $50-70 per test

These prices can vary based on volume, testing provider, and additional services like medical review officer (MRO) confirmation of positive results.

Industry-Specific Testing Requirements and Future Trends

Different industries have specific testing requirements that influence panel selection:

Department of Transportation (DOT)

DOT-regulated employers must use a 5 panel test that screens for:

• Marijuana
• Cocaine
• Amphetamines
• Opiates
• PCP

However, many transportation companies voluntarily add additional panels for more comprehensive screening.

Healthcare Industry

Healthcare facilities often use 7 or more panel tests to screen for prescription drug access and potential substance abuse issues among staff with access to medications.

As workplace drug testing evolves, we're seeing several important trends:

• Increased focus on prescription medication abuse screening
• More nuanced policies regarding marijuana in states with legalization
• Greater emphasis on impairment testing rather than just presence detection
• Expanded use of alternative testing methods like oral fluid testing

Understanding what a 6 panel drug test and what a 7 panel drug test screen for helps employers implement effective workplace safety programs while respecting legal requirements and employee privacy concerns. By selecting the appropriate panel, organizations can create testing protocols that address their specific industry risks and compliance needs.