Drug Free Workplace

Pre-employment screening is an important part of the hiring process for all businesses. For some industries and positions, this screening is required by law; for most businesses, however, it’s just a good practice. The laws about what information an employer can use to screen prospective employees varies by state and the nature of the position. Read more »

While some state and/or local governments do regulate substance testing, courts have consistently supported employers’ right to test employees and potential employees, especially if safety is a concern. Just because you, as an employer, can test, the question becomes, should you? Testing can improve safety, increase productivity, decrease absenteeism, and help you identify and remove problem employees—all Read more »

Productivity depends on people doing work and for companies seeking every edge available, a drug free workplace is one of the most beneficial for both employee and employer . In 2000, the cost of workplace drug abuse is estimated to have been around $160 billion. 69% of these costs were from lost productivity due to alcohol and drug Read more »

With so many changes in drug laws, it’s imperative that you are as up-to-date with them as is possible. Not knowing can land you and your company in trouble, not only with a civil suit from a disgruntled employee, but also with the Department of Labor. Part of the problem with drug laws is that Read more »

A vast number of employers conducts drug tests, so you will most likely have to pass one to get your next gig. People hear tales about someone who “beat the test” and believe all the various stories about cheating the system. Others believe the myths and develop unwarranted fears about the drug testing process. The following are some Read more »

There are many different reasons for employers to drug test their employees, but one thing is clear—those employers do have a legal right to require such testing. Drug use proponents can and have argued against screening, but the matter has been settled repeatedly. The bottom line is that there is no law that restricts the Read more »

It is unfortunate that employee substance abuse is on the rise in many companies around the USA. This can be a major factor contributing to workplace injuries and other associated problems. Studies have shown that when companies invest in drug testing programs, they are more likely to reduce workplace injury rates by as much as Read more »

Substance abuse takes many forms and alcohol and illegal drug use are increasingly being joined by prescription drug use as the most common in the workplace. Employers are acutely aware of the affects which include decreased productivity, reduced profit and poor employee morale which extends beyond the abuser and can lead to even more disruptive behavior. A common Read more »