Historical policy in the United States requires a company to conduct a drug test because of loss of productivity, increased absenteeism, accidents, tort and product liability, and a high rate of personal injury settlement. However, consuming marijuana for recreational purposes is legal in some states as major shifts on drug policy and approaches to medical marijuana are being closely examined across the US.

Every country has its own procedures and practices in implementing drug policy by considering several differences such as culture, legal systems, religious underpinnings, morale codes, and international agreements.

In Liberia, marijuana is tolerated but not alcohol use. In China, they tolerate alcohol and drug use without resources for rehabilitation counselor.

Rules are tighter in Indonesia and Malaysia where policy is bind not only by Law but also by the culture as it manages actions of individuals.

Drug use policy may compete with employment policy where in Costa Rica, possession of drugs for immediate personal use is not a criminal offense and employers cannot fire an employee for refusing a drug test. Meanwhile, in Dubai, window for negotiations is open and written in the individual employment agreement.

Regardless of whether a country accepts or opposes the possession or drug use, if the culture is opposed then the consequences from the discovery of such use could be extreme.

Having a consent letter signed by the candidates/employees are enforced.