Does Accenture Drug Test? Revealed

Two questions – do Accenture drug test during their hiring process, and do they perform any random narcotic testing while out in the field?

The truth is, Accenture keeps its cards close to its chest on this issue.

Accenture may perform drug tests before employment in specific locations and for certain positions. However, some employees have reported that these tests are not compulsory, while others have said they are (along with other background checks.)

The decision to conduct a drug test during the pre-employment or working phase may depend on various factors, including but not limited to:

• Client Requirements
• Managerial Observations
• Background Check Results

In this article, I will delve into Accenture drug test practices, including:

• pre-employment screenings
• random drug tests
• guide you on preparing for a potential drug test

Accentrue’s Goal Of A Drug-Free Workplace

Accenture strongly emphasizes maintaining a drug-free workplace by following the highest ethical and legal standards.

The company also expects all applicants and current employees to adhere to these principles throughout their tenure. 

Engaging in illegal activities, including unlawful manufacture, sale, distribution, transfer, dispensation, possession, or use of drugs in the workplace, violates this policy and can lead to termination of employment or other appropriate disciplinary action. (Source)

Pre-Employment Drug Test at Accenture

Accenture may conduct pre-employment drug testing in specific states and for certain jobs. 

In a survey conducted by Drug Testing HQ in 2021, 81 people participated.

Some of them were selected for drug testing, while others were not. The following table presents the survey statistics:

Upon exploring, I have found that the company’s policy for pre-employment drug testing depends on the factors described below:

1. Client Requirements

If you are hired for a specialized role on a specific project at Accenture, and the client requires drug testing, the company may conduct it as part of the pre-employment process to fulfill their mandate.

In such circumstances, this test becomes mandatory.

2. Background Check Results

During the pre-employment process at Accenture, a comprehensive background check is also in order to gather information about the candidate, such as:

• Qualifications
• Family background
• Legal suits
• Employment history

The company may include drug testing as part of the hiring process if the background check reveals information about substance abuse or previous drug-related incidents.

Including a dope test in response to suspicious background check results is a proactive measure to ensure that individuals hired by Accenture meet the company values and adhere to their policies regarding substance abuse.

However, background check results alone may not automatically lead to drug testing. The company assesses each case individually, considering the following:

• Client specific circumstances
• Applicable laws
• Job position 

Random Drug Test at Accenture

Apart from pre-employment drug testing, Accenture has policies in place for random drug testing as well. 

The company can conduct these tests periodically without prior notice to ensure a safe and drug-free work environment. However, it is essential to note that the frequency and scope of random drug testing may vary depending on the following factors.

1. Upcoming Client Requirements

As Accenture employees work with various clients throughout their tenure, there may be instances where a new client requires individuals to work on their projects to undergo drug testing. (Source)

In such cases, the company may implement random drug testing to meet the specific client’s requirements and ensure compliance.

Furthermore, if Accenture secures a project with a client in a highly regulated industry like healthcare or finance, where narcotics are strictly prohibited, you can expect random drug tests at any time.

One of Accenture’s employees writes on Fishbowl, “No drug screens for employment; however, clients can request them. I’ve been at 3 client sites, and all 3 have required testing. I work mainly in the southeast. Take it as anecdotal as it may not be representative of all ACN clients.” (Source)

2. Managerial Observations

Higher management within Accenture is responsible for overseeing the performance and behavior of the employees. (Source)

For instance, if a team member’s work quality or productivity deteriorates, they frequently exhibit erratic behavior, or their colleagues express concerns about their well-being, the manager may recommend a random drug test as part of the duty to ensure the employee’s well-being and maintain a professional work environment.

What Type Of Drugs Does Accenture Test For?

The drugs Accenture tests for may depend on the location and specific circumstances. However, the commonly screened substances include:

• Marijuana (THC)
• Cocaine
• Amphetamines (including methamphetamine)
• Opioids (such as codeine, morphine, oxycodone, and heroin)
• Benzodiazepines (including Xanax, Valium, and Ativan)
• Barbiturates
• Phencyclidine (PCP)

Understanding and Compliance Accenture Drug Testing Policies

Understanding the company’s drug testing policies is crucial for potential candidates and the existing workforce at Accenture. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:

1. Company Policy Awareness

Familiarize yourself with Accenture’s drug testing policy, typically found in employee handbooks or internal HR resources. This will provide you with a clear understanding of the expectations and consequences associated with drug use.

2. Proactive Approach

Maintaining a drug-free lifestyle is the best way to ensure compliance with Accenture’s drug testing policies. It is essential to refrain from using prohibited substances and to be aware of any prescription medications that may affect drug test results.

3. Seek Support

If you are an addict to a specific drug, consider contacting professional help or support networks. Accenture has resources, such as employee assistance programs (EAPs), to assist you in dealing with such challenges.

What Does Accenture Include In Their Pre-Employment Screening?

Pre-employment screening is essential to Accenture’s hiring process to ensure prospective employees meet the company’s standards and requirements. Apart from the drug test requirements, here is an overview of the checks typically included, depending on the role and location.

1. Criminal Record Check

Accenture conducts criminal record checks to ensure the safety of its workers and clients. 

This check is typically performed at the national level and may include reviewing the candidate’s legal history, including any convictions or pending charges. (Source)

2. Employment Verification

Accenture verifies the candidate’s previous employment history to confirm the accuracy of the information provided. This includes contacting previous employers to validate dates of employment, job titles, responsibilities, and drug abuse records. 

3. Education Verification

The firm verifies the educational credentials claimed by the candidate, such as degrees, diplomas, or certifications. 

This process involves reaching educational institutions to confirm the candidate’s attendance, graduation, and the authenticity of the obtained qualifications.

4. Reference Checks

Accenture often conducts reference checks to gain insights into the candidate’s work ethic, skills, and performance from individuals who have directly worked with or supervised the contender in the past. References may include former supervisors, colleagues, or clients.

(Source)

5. Financial and Credit Checks

In some cases, the company may conduct monetary and credit checks to assess a candidate’s financial stability and trustworthiness. This check is typically performed for positions involving access to sensitive financial information or roles requiring high confidentiality.

6 Reasons Not To Take Drugs As A Consultant at Accenture

As a consultant at Accenture, there are several compelling reasons why it is advisable not to take drugs. I have discussed a few of them below:

1. Professional Conduct and Ethics

Accenture strongly emphasizes professionalism, integrity, and ethical conduct. Drug use can undermine these core values and damage your professional reputation. (Source)

Moreover, the company’s clients are usually big firms that trust their consultants to provide reliable and responsible advice and solutions, and any association with drug use can jeopardize that trust.

2. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

Drug use is illegal in most jurisdictions, and Accenture strictly adheres to local laws and regulations. The company expects all employees to comply with current legal requirements and maintain a clean record. 

Involvement in drug-related activities can lead to legal consequences, tarnish your professional standing, and potentially result in termination of employment.

3. Health and Well-being

Being a drug addict poses significant risks to your physical and mental well-being, leading to long-term health problems and impaired cognitive abilities. Therefore, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential for productivity, effective problem-solving, and strong client relationships.

4. Client Trust and Confidentiality

Accenture consultants often work with sensitive and confidential client information. Hence, one should avoid drugs as this can impair judgment, compromise decision-making abilities, and increase the chances of breaches in client confidentiality. 

5. Teamwork and Collaboration

Collaboration is fundamental to consulting; working effectively in teams is critical to delivering successful client outcomes. (Source)

Drug use can disrupt teamwork, impair communication, and hinder the ability to contribute to group efforts. 

6. Professional Advancement

Advancing your consulting career at Accenture requires consistent high performance and a demonstrated commitment to professional growth. But engaging in drug use can halt your productivity and reliability, limiting opportunities for career advancement within the organization.