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Fentanyl Positive Drug Tests Surge 400%: How CRC Can Help

A 400% rise in workplace fentanyl positives is prompting employers to strengthen drug testing. See how CRC helps protect your workforce and stay compliant.

Surge in Fentanyl Positives

With a 400% increase in employees testing positive for fentanyl, employers are facing unprecedented challenges. CRC offers solutions to help mitigate risk and maintain a safe, drug-free workplace.

A recent Newsweek report revealed a striking rise in the number of employees testing positive for fentanyl, with cases surging by 400%. This sharp increase has left employers grappling with how to protect their businesses, employees, and communities from the effects of fentanyl use.

As the opioid crisis deepens, fentanyl, a potent synthetic drug, has rapidly moved into workplaces across the country. Fentanyl is linked to thousands of overdose deaths annually, and companies are re-examining their drug testing processes and support systems to address the risks it poses on the job.

The Growing Problem

As fentanyl’s presence spreads through illegal drug markets, its use in the workplace is becoming more common, especially in industries where physical labor is required or employees hold safety-sensitive roles. The drug is particularly concerning because of its potency, up to 100 times stronger than morphine, and because even small exposures can have fatal consequences.

According to the Newsweek report, the surge in fentanyl positives comes as the opioid crisis continues across the U.S. Employees testing positive for fentanyl can pose real risks to employers, including workplace accidents, decreased productivity, legal liabilities, and a greater need for employee assistance programs.

CRC: A Partner in Protecting the Workplace

CRC provides employers with comprehensive drug testing services tailored to the evolving needs of today’s workforce, using testing technology and experienced professionals to help detect fentanyl and other dangerous substances.

We understand employers are under pressure to keep the workplace safe and drug-free while balancing employee privacy and legal considerations. That is why CRC offers customizable testing options, including on-site testing, lab-based confirmation, and random drug screening programs, designed to help companies stay compliant and proactive in protecting their teams.

How CRC Can Help

  • Fentanyl-specific testing. Our drug testing services include tests designed to detect fentanyl and its analogs, helping keep your team safe and your business protected from opioid-related workplace incidents.
  • Customized drug testing programs. Tailored programs based on the needs of your industry, workforce size, and risk levels, whether your employees work in healthcare, education, government, or transportation.
  • On-site testing. Mobile testing units come directly to your workplace, making drug testing more convenient and efficient, and helping companies quickly identify issues and take action.
  • Compliance and risk management. CRC’s drug testing programs are designed to stay compliant with federal and state regulations, so your company stays current with changing laws and industry standards.

Addressing a National Crisis

As fentanyl continues to affect communities across the U.S., employers are in a critical position to protect their workforce. By partnering with CRC, companies can take a proactive stance on drug abuse and help ensure a safe, healthy, compliant workplace.

To learn more about how CRC can help your business manage the risks of fentanyl and other drugs in the workplace, contact us today.

This post reflects data reported by Newsweek and industry conditions at the time of original publication in September 2025.

About the author

Dorian Dehnel

President

Dorian Dehnel is President of CRC (CriminalRecordCheck.com), where he has led the company since 2003. For more than two decades, he has partnered with healthcare, education, and public sector leaders to deliver trusted, transparent background screening programs, helping employers mitigate risk through compliant and comprehensive employment screening and background investigation services. A former field investigator with a B.S. in Criminal Justice from East Carolina University, Dorian brings hands-on investigative experience to CRC's PBSA-accredited screening services and to the standards of speed, accuracy, and service the company is known for.