Drug testing is a laboratory procedure that looks for evidence of drug use by analyzing urine, blood, and hair samples. If tested, you must provide a sample in front of an observer to ensure it is not tampered with. The samples are then sent to a laboratory for analysis, after which the employer is informed of the results (Wodell 1). The big question among businesses, schools and athletes is just who should be subject to the new trend of mandatory drug testing. and federal government employees. Companies believe that random drug testing of their employees will lead to higher productivity, save on health care costs, improve employee turnover, prevent fewer accidents and improve job satisfaction. Schools are starting to test their students in more and more regions. This time, it's not just athletes who will be tested, but also anyone involved in extracurricular activities. Schools believe that testing their students will give them an excuse to say no to drugs. It has also generated much controversy among federal government employees, as they feel it is a violation of their right to privacy. Today, 81% of large U.S. companies engage in some form of employee drug testing, and 98% of Fortune 200 companies have done so. drug testing policies. On the other hand, employees are more aware of their rights. With the increased awareness of privacy issues in the United States, instituting a drug testing policy can put a company in a precarious legal position if they are not careful. Testing agencies say this growing trend is helping to reduce drug and alcohol abuse in the workforce. According to one establishment in 1987, 18.1% of those tested showed positive drug use compared to 1997, where only 5% of five...... middle of paper ... and one cut hair . " The Progressive May 1999: 32-36. Levy, James. "Workplace Stress." Baltimore Business Journal February 24, 1997: 17-20. Peck, Jeanne Peck "Workplace Drug Testing Is Now a Reality ." 1998: 20-23. Shoop, Bob. "Mandatory drug testing violates rights." USA Today August 1996: 15-16. "Why is drug testing just marijuana testing? January 20, 1998: online web page July 19, 1999. Available at: marijuananews.com Wodell, Russell. “The Facts About Drug Testing in the Workplace” (1997), web page, August 4, 1999. Privacy/drugtest. .html “Workplace drug testing can actually encourage drug use” Globe Daily webpage (1999)../ 112398.