What are the major problems associated with drugs in the workplace?
In addition to deaths and accidents, absenteeism and loss of production, other problems that alcohol and drug abuse can cause on the job include: Tardiness/sleeping on the job2 Hangover or withdrawal affecting job performance. Poor decision making.
What should an employer do if an employee is using drugs?
Every company should have a written substance use and abuse policy that prohibits using drugs or alcohol during work hours and gives the employer recourse if the employee’s performance is being affected by drug or alcohol abuse after-hours.
What happens if an employee has a positive drug test?
Most policies offer return to work rights with a clause that allows for termination if the employee is found under the influence at work again. An employer does have the option to terminate immediately for positive test results.
Who is required to take a pre employment drug test?
Employees in a federally regulated position, on the other hand, are mandated to take and pass a pre-employment urine test. Employees that are federally required to take a drug test include airline pilots, bus drivers, railroad employees, taxi drivers, and truck drivers.
What to do if you suspect an employee has a substance abuse problem?
Employees should be required to read and sign the agreement upon hire, Estes says. And if you do suspect an employee has a problem, take these four steps. 1. Gather resources. Most communities have substance abuse prevention agencies and resources.
How does an employer deal with drug and alcohol problems?
For drug and alcohol problems, the employer often requires the employee to complete a drug or alcohol rehab program, provide periodic status reports or a medical release to contact the rehab facility directly, and periodic drug or alcohol tests upon the employee’s return to work.
Can a non-DOT regulated employee be drug tested?
This is a serious mistake because drug and alcohol testing of non-DOT-regulated employees is instead governed by applicable state and local laws. Those laws may prohibit certain types of testing that are required by DOT.
What are the dangers of drug use in the workplace?
These problems can include: Employees who abuse drugs and alcohol can also make a workplace more volatile and dangerous, exposing employers to legal liability and other legal issues. Download your free cheat sheet on How to Deal with Employee Drug Use to learn what to do about employee drug use in your office.
Can a company fire an employee for drug testing?
(Five states do not permit employers to fire an employee who tests positive for the first time.) 3. Not having a written policy. Many states do not have drug testing laws, and employers in those states often believe it is not necessary to have a written drug testing policy (for non-DOT-regulated employees).