I think everytime I have interviewed for a job. (I have heard this from other people too) I get asked in the interview if I would be opposed to taking a drug test, but they never get around to actually getting one done...
I think most employers just want to judge your reaction to the question.
My last answer was, "If your testing for Tobacco, Caffine and Scotch you can count me out."
Putting on my employer/supervisor mindset... (simular to iwire and NJwirenut) My time is my time. Whats done on your time is none of my buisiness. But at work, you had better have you head strapped on tight. Booze - drugs - sleep - too much on your mind I dont care. "Once you step foot on the Bodie Plantation - you best set you mind to workin'" (No - I'm not a slave driver...) This is from a guy who can drink a fair bit at night - not prone to hangovers, smokes a pack a day, and has 64oz coffee mug. If you count that, I'm chemically dependant. All I want is my 8 hours out of you going forward, not reverse. But on the other hand, if you on something at the job, and I know - you're sacked! (I'm not above calling in with the 'Irish flu', and its not habit either.)
FYI I had a heroine addict working under me for about two years, I had no idea until he told me he needed to check into a rehab. Said he never did it on the job, I dont doubt him about it. (He did fantastic work - really! 100% attent to detail. Never missed a day of work - always on the ball.) Had a problem on his own time, and was honest with me and himself about - not much more you can ask for. If he didn't tell me, I would have never known. And I still give him good refferances, and I would hire him again no questions asked.
Edit to add, I have sacked someone for being high on the job, handed him his pay and never seen again.
[This message has been edited by e57 (edited 04-11-2006).]