Why are employers interested in establishing a drug-free workplace program?
Substance abuse by employees results in:
- Higher health care expenses for injuries and illnesses
- Higher rates of absenteeism
- Reductions in job productivity and performance
- More workers’ compensation and disability claims
- Safety and other risks for employers.
Employees with substance abuse issues often:
- Fail to fulfill major role obligations at work, school or home
- Use substances in situations where it is physically hazardous (e.g. operating a machine when impaired by substance use)
- Have recurrent substance-related legal or financial problems
- Continue to use substances
What are the 5 steps to establishing a drug-free workplace program?
- Develop a written substance policy
- Train your supervisors
- Educate employees
- Provide employee assistance
- Establish a drug and alcohol testing program
Step 0:
Due to the many recent changes in laws and regulations for drug-free workplaces, it is best to contact an organization that will be able to assist you in the development of your policy and program.
Employee Screening Services provides comprehensive services (from policy to training to scheduling to results) for companies wishing to establish or maintain a drug-free workplace that complies with U.S. laws and regulations.
Contact ESS today for a free needs analysis.
Source: National Business Group on Health
