Last updated : December 16, 2024
Maintaining a safe and efficient work environment is one of the most important goals of every employer. While most small business owners aim to implement safe practices throughout the workplace, many would be surprised to discover that the safety of their employees and customers could be compromised by those who use illegal drugs. Unfortunately, you may be under the false belief that your small business does not have a drug problem. Although it is admirable that you trust your employees, it is very likely that drug abuse could be taking place both on and off of company property. Here are a few things that every small business owner should know about drug abuse in the workplace and effective techniques for eliminating a drug problem.
Most Commonly Abused Drugs
Although most people tend to think of hard street drugs, such as cocaine and heroin, when they address drug abuse in the workplace, the likelihood is that there is more than one type of drug being used by employees. In addition to alcohol and tobacco, employers will want to be on the lookout for other substances that are illegal for everyone such as marijuana. For this reason, many employers choose to pre-screen their applicants using drug screenings designed to catch a multitude of drugs.
Signs of Drug Abuse
Serious drug abusers are often able to mask their drug-related symptoms quite well. This can be part of the reason why a small business owner may falsely believe that drug abuse is not a problem for their company. However, when their behavior and physical health is examined more carefully, the signs of drug abuse can be recognized. For example, those who are under the influence of amphetamines may exhibit an abundance of energy that may enable them to accomplish a great deal of work in a short period of time. Unfortunately, their frenzied work habits can also lead to accidents, and they may exhibit increased anger. Ecstasy can also contribute to memory loss and tremors that might be noticed by employers. Finally, one of the clearest signs of drug abuse that cannot be disputed is the presence of a positive drug test. When in doubt about an employee’s performance, it is always better to test.
Benefits of Drug Testing
There are many benefits of drug testing employees in the workplace. One of the greatest benefits is identifying people who may need help with their addiction. Many people who are addicted to drugs such as marijuana may never seek help until it becomes clear that it has cost them a job. By establishing that a clean drug test is a standard requirement for employment with your company, you will be taking a positive stance toward eradicating drug abuse in your community. Your company will also benefit from being a safer work environment. This will lead to less accidents and injuries that can affect your insurance and liability. Finally, making sure that people are not doing cocaine and other drugs when on your property or at home will provide you with the peace of mind that each of your employees and customers are safe.
How to Check for a Drug Problem
Although it may appear that there is not a problem, regular drug testing can help employers to prevent one from developing. One of the considerations that employers must make is whether to include pre-employment testing or testing at regular intervals for all employees. By choosing the best procedure for their company, small business owners can implement a plan that details the procedures to be followed. This will not only make it clear that drugs will not be tolerated in the workplace, but it will also help to establish that drug screening is important for the health and safety of every employee.
Once you have decided who and how often you will test, you will then need to implement regular screenings. You can also determine which drugs, such as amphetamines and marijuana, for which you would like to screen. However, most employers find that testing for every drug is the most thorough way to screen. Finally, have an established plan set for those who do not pass the drug screening. Usually, a pre-employment screen that results in an applicant being positive for heroin will result in them not being hired. By eliminating those with an addiction from the hiring pool, small business owners can continue to offer the best work environment for their employees that will reflect in the quality of the goods and services you provide your customers.
