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Does Manpower Drug Test?

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It Depends

Manpower drug testing depends on the client company's requirements. As a staffing agency, Manpower places workers at client sites, and many industrial and warehouse clients require pre-assignment drug testing. Office and administrative placements are less likely to require testing.

Manpower (ManpowerGroup) drug testing depends on the specific client company and assignment. Manpower is one of the world's largest staffing agencies, placing temporary workers in light industrial, manufacturing, warehouse, office, and professional roles. The drug testing requirement comes from the client company, not from Manpower itself. Industrial, warehouse, and manufacturing clients typically require pre-assignment urine drug testing. Office, administrative, and call center clients are less likely to require testing. When you apply for an assignment through Manpower, your recruiter will inform you whether drug testing is required for that specific placement.

Drug Testing by Position

PositionTested?Test TypeWhen
Warehouse / Light Industrial (temp)Yes — most clients require itUrinePre-assignment
Manufacturing / Production (temp)Yes — most clients require itUrinePre-assignment
Office / Administrative / Call Center (temp)Varies by clientUrine or oral fluidPre-assignment (if required by client)
Professional / IT (contract)Varies by clientUrinePre-assignment (if required by client)
Manpower Internal StaffVariesUrine (if required)Pre-employment (some roles)

Manpower Drug Testing Is Client-Driven

Manpower (part of ManpowerGroup) is a staffing agency that places temporary and contract workers at client company worksites. Drug testing requirements are set by the client company, not by Manpower itself. When you are matched with an assignment, Manpower will inform you whether drug testing is required. Many clients in the industrial, manufacturing, and warehouse sectors require pre-assignment drug testing as part of their workplace safety programs. Clients in office, administrative, and professional settings are less likely to require testing, though some still do.

Industrial and Warehouse Assignments — Usually Tested

If you are seeking a light industrial, manufacturing, or warehouse placement through Manpower, expect to be drug tested. These assignments typically involve working with machinery, forklifts, or in environments where impairment could create safety hazards. The test is usually a standard urine drug screen conducted at a third-party collection site before your first day on assignment. Some clients also maintain post-accident and reasonable-suspicion testing policies that apply to temporary workers alongside their permanent employees.

How to Find Out If Your Assignment Requires Testing

The most reliable way to find out if a specific Manpower assignment requires drug testing is to ask your Manpower recruiter directly. During the application and placement process, your recruiter will explain the client's requirements, including any drug testing, background checks, and other screening. If you prefer not to be drug tested, let your recruiter know — they may be able to match you with assignments that do not require testing, particularly in office, administrative, or customer service roles.

Recent Policy Changes

  • 2020-2021: Some Manpower clients reduce or eliminate drug testing during pandemic labor shortages, particularly for non-safety-sensitive positions
  • 2024-2026: Drug testing continues to vary by client; industrial clients maintain testing while some office clients have removed requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Manpower drug test all temp workers?
No. Manpower does not drug test all temporary workers. Testing is required by the client company, and requirements vary by assignment. Industrial, warehouse, and manufacturing assignments usually require testing. Office and administrative assignments often do not. Ask your Manpower recruiter about the specific requirements for your assignment.
What type of drug test does Manpower use?
When testing is required, Manpower typically sends you to a third-party collection site for a urine drug test (urinalysis). The standard panel screens for marijuana (THC), cocaine, amphetamines, opiates, and PCP. Some clients may use oral fluid (mouth swab) tests instead.
Does Manpower test for marijuana?
It depends on the client and the state. Some clients include marijuana (THC) in their testing panels, while others have removed it. In states that prohibit pre-employment marijuana testing for non-safety-sensitive positions, the law protects temporary workers the same as permanent employees.
Can I get a Manpower assignment without drug testing?
Yes. Many office, administrative, call center, and customer service assignments placed through Manpower do not require drug testing. Let your recruiter know your preferences, and they can try to match you with assignments that do not require screening.
What happens if I fail a Manpower drug test?
If you fail a drug test for a specific assignment, that placement will be withdrawn. Depending on the circumstances, you may still be eligible for other assignments that do not require drug testing. The failed test may be recorded in your Manpower file and could affect future placements with clients that require testing.

Take Action — Direct Links

Disclaimer: This is informational only, not legal advice. Company drug testing policies change frequently and may vary by location. Always confirm the current policy with your hiring manager or HR representative. For substance abuse support, call SAMHSA at 1-800-662-4357 (free, confidential, 24/7).