Workplace Drug Abuse - Why Employers Need to Take Action

The first federal programs to address workplace drug abuse were introduced in the early 1970s, but their implementation was hampered by the lack of basic technology. Instead, agencies were required to implement some form of employee assistance program, such as an EAP or DSP, to help employees combat their addictions. These efforts have been a success, but they are far from universal. Workplace drug abuse continues to plague America's workforce. There are many reasons why drug use in the workplace is on the rise, and employers need to take action to combat it. In this article, you will learn  about drug testing.

 

The costs of workplace drug abuse are staggering, costing US employers $25 billion each year. Many times, these workers are late or absent without explanation. This is because they have taken drugs, which make their bodies react differently to the body. If you suspect someone of drug use at your workplace, you should conduct a preemployment drug test. The process should be confidential and include a physical examination. A drug test should be administered within a few days of hiring, and you should also conduct a pre-employment physical to identify any possible health risks.

 

The onset of this debate dates back to the early 1970s, but did not result in any significant programmatic activity. In fact, the issue did not really gain widespread attention until the mid-1980s. Nevertheless, the current organizational climate and policy environment has resulted in a renewed interest in the issue. The first round was largely driven by concern over drug-using behaviors among young employees. But more subtle forces have played a role as well.

 

Employers are required to inform their employees of their rights and the consequences of refusing to take a drug test. While workplace drug testing may be illegal, it is a crucial part of workplace safety. It is important to make sure that you have a policy in place and that you stick to it. Taking action to address workplace drug abuse can save your business millions in the long run. If you don't follow these guidelines, you may find yourself in a dangerous situation.

 

Although workplace drug tests are a necessary part of the process of keeping your workplace safe from dangerous drugs, it is still controversial. Some critics believe that drug tests can be used for racial profiling and discrimination. They argue that "random" drug testing only targets minority employees, which reinforces damaging stereotypes of minorities. Even worse, there have been instances in which employers have manipulated test results by altering the results. To book for  drug testing, click here now.

 

The first workplace drug abuse intervention program in the US was designed to target the "hidden alcoholics" in the company. Employers saw the cost of having an employee with a substance abuse problem as a threat to company profits. The company saw its profits diminish and employees' behavior deteriorate. A workplace drug abuse intervention program was created in response to this, but the program was not widely adopted at that time. The programs had mixed results, resulting in a lack of clear action and a lack of consistency.

To get an understabnding of drug testing, read more here: https://www.encyclopedia.com/social-sciences-and-law/economics-business-and-labor/businesses-and-occupations/drug-testing.