Keeping Temporary Workers Safe: The Need for Pre-Employment Testing

Temporary workers are essential to many industries; from construction and manufacturing to warehousing and logistics. They help companies stay agile, fill labor gaps, and meet project demands. But while their roles are temporary, the risks they face are very real. Without proper screening, temporary employees may unknowingly be placed in roles that jeopardize their safety and the safety of others.

At Workplace Safety Screenings, we believe that every worker, permanent or temporary, deserves the same level of protection. That starts with pre-employment testing.

Why Temporary Workers Are at Higher Risk

According to OSHA, temporary workers are more likely to be injured on the job compared to full-time employees. Why?

• Inconsistent training: Temps may not receive the same safety orientation or equipment handling protocols.

• Job role uncertainty: Assignments can shift, leaving workers unsure of responsibilities.

• Speed of hiring: When roles need to be filled quickly, background checks and health evaluations may be skipped.

• Limited experience: Many temps are new to the industry or worksite.

How Pre-Employment Testing Protects Everyone

Pre-employment testing ensures that a temporary worker is fit for the job—physically, mentally, and legally. Here's how it helps:

Drug and Alcohol Testing
Helps prevent impaired individuals from entering safety-sensitive roles, reducing the risk of accidents caused by poor judgment or delayed reaction times.

Occupational Health Exams
Identifies pre-existing conditions, physical limitations, or medication use that could interfere with job performance or increase injury risk.

Background Checks (Optional but Recommended)
Uncovers past violations or patterns of unsafe behavior, especially important in environments with heavy machinery or high safety protocols.

Job-Specific Fitness Evaluations
Ensures the worker can safely lift, climb, or perform the physical requirements of the job.

Creating a Safer Culture for Everyone

Protecting temporary workers does more than reduce injury; it builds a safer work environment for the entire team. When all workers are held to the same safety standards, trust increases, compliance improves, and productivity rises.

At WSS, we help businesses integrate rapid, reliable screening protocols that fit fast-paced hiring needs without cutting corners on safety.

Temporary doesn’t mean less important. By requiring pre-employment testing for all new hires (including temps) your company protects people, productivity, and peace of mind. Don’t treat safety as optional. Make it your standard.

Need help building a fast, compliant screening process for temporary workers?
Contact Workplace Safety Screenings today to set up drug testing, occupational health exams, or return-to-work evaluations tailored to your industry.Keep temporary workers safe with pre-employment testing. Learn how drug screening and health exams reduce risk and create a safer, more productive workplace for everyone.