 What is a Drug Free Workplace Program? Over the last 15 years, many employers have established Drug Free Workplace Programs. In fact, the majority of large employers report having this type of program in place. Employers have established these programs for a variety of reasons including government mandates, insurance costs and employee safety issues. However, before any employer implements a program, it is important to understand the components of a comprehensive drug free workplace program. Employers interested in establishing a program should begin by assessing the workplace to determine what type of program is needed. Employers should take a look at the types of work performed and the variety of situations in which an impaired employee could affect the business. Are there safety sensitive job functions? Are employees closely supervised during work hours or are they out in the field? Are employees responsible for large amounts of money or confidential information? Could the employer afford to lose an employee who gets into trouble with drugs or alcohol? The answers to these questions will determine if the benefits associated with implementing a drug free workplace justify the costs. Once an employer has determined that the workplace can afford to implement and will benefit from a drug free workplace, the first step in establishing a program is to adopt a Substance Abuse Policy. This policy should state the reasons for the policy, the prohibited behavior, the procedures used to enforce the policy and the consequences for violating the policy. Sample policies are available from a variety of sources including drug free workplace program consultants. Employee and supervisor training should be the next step. It is important to educate everyone involved in this new program about the signs, symptoms and effects of substance abuse. Supervisors need to know how to handle an employee suspected of violating the policy. Employees need to know what resources are available to them should they have a problem. Testing for both illicit drugs and alcohol is the most controversial part of any drug free workplace. However, without testing, employers are simply asking employees to comply with the policy. There is not other way to ensure that the policy is being observed. Testing can be done in such a way that it is legal, affordable, maintains employee privacy, and produces the desired results. Employee counseling and assistance is the final part of a comprehensive program. Many employers decide to cut costs here, but assistance once a problem is discovered may be the least costly part of the program when compared to its long term benefits. It is extremely expensive to recruit, hire and train a good employee. Working with a valuable employee to resolve a substance abuse problem can result in an even more valuable and loyal employee. In summary, although the risks, costs and benefits of a drug free workplace will be different for each employer, the components of an effective, comprehensive program are the same. They are: · Assessment of the workplace · Policy development · Employee and Supervisor Training · Substance Abuse Testing · Employee assistance. Did you know? According to government agencies who keep track of such things, 68% of drug users are employed? In the next issue….. What is Drug Testing? What are the risks and benefits? When do I test? How do I test? What does it cost? Easton, MD 21601 Phone: 800-994-0307 Fax: 410-822-9434 Click Here To Send Health Enhancement An Email |
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