Last updated : November 11, 2024
For employers, workplace drug testing can be an effective method of addressing concerns about a specific employee. However, a strong testing program can also save your business money and boost your bottom line.
Impact of Drug Use in the Workplace
According to the National Institutes of Health, approximately 70 percent of employees who use drugs or habitually drink are employed. The United Stated Department of Labor estimates that employee drug use costs businesses $75 to $100 million annually. While employees may not be using on the job, they may be binging on the weekends or during off-hours. These behaviors can impact their workplace performance, leading to accidents and poor work performance.
The Small Business Administration studied the cost of drug use for employers and discovered that it costs businesses approximately $7,000 for each employee who is indulging, whether it is on the job or outside of scheduled work hours. For larger employers, this can add up to a great deal of money. Even for smaller businesses, this amount of money can be substantial.
Additionally, approximately 65 percent of workplace accidents are related to drug and alcohol use. Out of these accidents, 40 percent are caused directly by employees who are impaired. Tests reveal that marijuana is the most common positive result. However, other types of drugs that appear on pre-employment, random and post-event tests include opiate pain pills, amphetamines, cocaine and barbiturates.
Improves Employee Safety
Because of the substantial numbers of accidents that are caused by impaired employees, companies with a comprehensive testing policy in place can potentially avert workplace accidents. Employees who are aware of the consequences of testing positive may make healthier choices, resulting in fewer accidents.
According to a report from Employment Health Today, employees report that they want a workplace that is safe and in which they can perform their work tasks well. Workplace testing means that employee have the reassurance of knowing that their employers are looking out for their safety.
Prevent Future Employee Issues
For employers who regularly test new hires or potential employees, future problems can be avoided. Drug problems can quickly become employer problems when an employee who appears steady and reliable is using regularly. Requiring an immediate drug test when a job offer is made helps identify someone who may be a liability for your company.
In addition to the costs associated with work site accidents, employees who have drug and alcohol issues can also cost your business in other ways. They may impact business relationships with existing or potential customers. For example, a sales person who is feeling the effects of a weekend binge may convey information incorrectly or may not present well to customers. These types of behaviors can result in fewer sales and impact the bottom line over time. For smaller businesses, the financial impact of a poorly performing employee who is impaired by the effects of alcohol or drug use can be substantial.
Mandated Industry Testing
In some cases, having a drug testing policy in place is a requirement. The Department of Transportation requires businesses to test employees regularly to ensure safety of the public on the road. Additionally, testing is required after accidents. Companies that do not require testing can have substantial fines and penalties issued. Additionally, an employee who is found to be driving impaired who causes an accident opens the door to potential law suits resulting from damages and injuries.
Improve Employee Performance
Business owners constantly strive to get the best possible performance from their employees. Employees who abuse drugs have a litany of performance issues, including lateness, absenteeism and poor morale.
By enacting testing policies, business owners and managers can improve employee health, leading to improved overall work performance. Employees will be less inclined to be late for their shift and have fewer reasons to miss work.
Studies have found that after implementing a comprehensive drug testing policy, employee theft and behavioral problems decrease. Employees report that working in a drug-free workplace helps them pay better attention to their job tasks and productivity increases.
A comprehensive drug testing policy will save your business money in a wide variety of ways. In addition to identifying potential problem employees, it can reduce workplace accidents and increase productivity for your business.
USA Mobile Drug Testing is a leading provider of employer drug testing in the Southeastern United States, including Atlanta, Miami, Orlando and other major metropolitan areas. We can help you develop a comprehensive testing program for your business. Additionally, as compliance specialists, we also provide supervisor training, employee training and DOT program compliance assistance.
