Drug Testing

Think your employees don’t use drugs and alcohol on the job? …

Think Again

Statistics show that an average of 15- 17 percent of employees in every U.S. company are substance users.

Users are three to four times more likely to have an accident on the job, and five times more likely to file a workers’ compensation claim. Approximately 40 percent of these accidents involve a coworker. Also, abusers utilize 300 to 400 percent more in healthcare benefits.

Substance use in the workplace is costly. Employers pay $7,000 to $25,000 annually per substance abuser in lost time and productivity.

A drug-free workplace program can provide your company with a 10 -20 percent premium discount on your workers’ compensation premiums.

There are 5 components to a drug-free workplace:

• Written Drug-Free Workplace Policy
Every organization should have a policy that meets their needs. Every policy should include why the policy is being implemented, a description of prohibited procedures, and an explanation of the consequences.

• Supervisor Training
Educate the supervisors so that they understand the policy and are able to recognize and confront problems that may be the result of substance use. Inform them how to refer employees to the proper resources for assistance.

• Employee Education
Advise employees how substance use impacts work performance. Instruct them in the proper ways to get help with any substance related problems.

• Employee Assistance
Allows employees to learn the process and apply it to real situations. Increases the effectiveness of the employees.

• Drug Testing
Before deciding to proceed with drug testing there are a few basic factors to consider.
• Who will be tested.
• When will tests be administered.
• Which drugs will be tested for.
• How will tests be performed and resulted.