Last updated : November 11, 2024
Given its ideal location on the I-95 corridor, its large and diverse population, its metropolitan lifestyle and its extensive transportation networks, Atlanta, GA is a strategic target for drug trafficking organizations.
In the last few years, Atlanta’s growth and subsequent increase in drug-related crime has forced area employers to take a stronger stance against drug use in the workplace.
An increase in the number of employers implementing drug testing programs reflects Atlanta’s desire to improve workplace safety and integrity.
Drug Use and Unsafe Work Environments
Drug use puts everyone in a workplace environment at risk, even when it only occurs at home on weekends. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, up to 20 percent of employees who die on the job test positive for drugs or alcohol. Under the influence of drugs, it becomes more difficult to function properly. Drugs interfere with concentration. They reduce one’s ability to react quickly to dangerous situations and make rational decisions. Employees who take drugs may have impaired vision, hearing, memory recall and motor skills. It’s especially risky for a drug user to operate heavy equipment, work with hazardous substances, or drive a commercial vehicle. Employers of drug users are more likely to be sued and may eventually have to pay higher insurance premiums. As drug-related workplace problems become more common, Atlanta businesses are starting to recognize the importance of comprehensive drug testing programs.
How Does Drug Testing Benefit Atlanta Employers?
- Periodic and random drug tests encourage consistent compliance.
- Drug testing greatly reduces workplace accidents and injuries.
- Employers who implement drug testing programs receive a 7.5 percent credit towards worker’s compensation premiums.
- A drug-free staff is more productive, and workplace morale is higher.
- Companies that conduct drug testing experience fewer absences, lower turnover rates and less internal theft.
- Workers who refuse to take a drug test or who test positive for illegal substances may no longer be eligible for worker’s compensation or unemployment benefits.
Understanding the Drug Screening Process
Mobile, on-site testing options make it easier than ever for busy companies in large cities to ensure compliance. Tests may be administered on a schedule or at random times. Random testing helps keep employees sober at all times and may be ideal for high-risk settings. Illegal drugs can be detected in human urine, blood, saliva, hair and sweat samples. Drug tests are used to screen for the following substances as required.
- Heroin and other opiates
- Cocaine
- Amphetamines or methamphetamines
- Phencyclidine
- Marijuana
- Synthetic marijuana (K2, Spice)
- Prescription painkillers, anti-anxiety drugs and sleep aids
Positive Test Results
Worker’s compensation or unemployment benefits may be denied to employees with positive drug test results, and exposed users may lose their jobs. On the other hand, testing can also facilitate positive change; it can give employers an opportunity to intervene, and offer rehabilitation options to a valued employee who has developed a drug problem.
Atlanta’s Wise Decision
Some experts predict that increasing the use of drug testing programs will help Atlanta businesses decrease workplace injuries by 51 percent within two years. In addition to making the workplace safer, drug tests can increase profit, reduce turnover and protect a company’s reputation and dignity. As Atlanta companies make progress in the war on workplace drug use, employers in other major cities may be inspired to follow them.
