Business owners and companies strive to promote a safe working environment for all employees, where better health is encouraged. Therefore, most of the organizations consider the usage of alcohol and drugs on the job as a counterproductive and unsafe practice and aim to maintain a drug free workplace.
According to the Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, a drug free workplace is one where “the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of a controlled substance is prohibited.”
Substance abuse is considered a severe threat to other employees, customers, and the public, in general. Many employers have prohibited the sale, possession, and usage of illegal drugs and alcohol in the workplace.
It is integral for you to establish a strict drug free workplace program to avoid any impact on your business and to enhance workplace safety. When an individual is abusing drugs, it is almost impossible to keep the drug use away from the workplace, which means it is highly likely that their productivity will suffer.
Maintaining a drug-free workplace is the most effective way of preventing any drug-related consequences, including a hostile work environment, reduced profits, accidents, lawsuits, and more. It provides all the employees with a safe and positive environment to work in, while also maintaining the safety of the public.
Here are some of the best practices on how to drug test employees and why it is important to maintain a drug free workplace:
Following drug-free workplace programs is among the most valuable assets for any company because it increases the productivity levels of all employees. Employees suffering from drug abuse are not likely to be as productive as the employees not under the influence of drugs.
One of the clear signs and symptoms of drug abuse is sluggish mental and physical activity, which means such employees are more likely to take sick days, more breaks, come in late, and do sloppy work.
When employees know that drug and alcohol usage is prohibited in the workplace, and could be subject to testing, they will not engage in these activities. As a result, your employees will know drug users are not in your workforce, they will stay with your company longer and enjoy working in a safe workplace.
Employees with a substance abuse problem are at a higher risk of sustaining or causing work-related injuries. This is particularly true for at-risk positions, such as employees who carry a firearm, perform life-threatening procedures, caretakers, construction workers, and those responsible for handling transportation. Working under the influence can result in grave consequences and ultimately cost the company thousands or millions in lawsuits and claims.
When an effective drug-free workplace program is implemented, this means that all the employees, including new hires, will be thoroughly screened for drug or alcohol abuse. As a result, your company can vet out any applicant with drug issues and save resources and time in hiring and training. Individuals with drug or alcohol abuse issues are more likely to avoid applying to organizations that have a strict drug-free workplace.
The major components of a successful drug-free workplace program include a well-written policy highlighting what is expected from the employees, reasons for testing, and what is prohibited.
This helps promote a safe, drug-free workplace. The basic requirements for a drug-free workplace vary by state. but almost all include:
Maintaining a drug-free work environment work and establishing an effective policy and plan can enhance the overall work culture and employee productivity of any organization. It will help your company uphold employee morale, work ethic, and employee satisfaction while improving the safety of the workplace and the general public.
It is an effective means of reducing the possibility of potential risks, accidents, fatalities, and other damages. To make sure your drug and alcohol programs are up-to-date, create a new one, or to learn more about ways to begin testing and establish a drug-free workplace, get in touch with us.