Many employers wonder if they should implement a drug free workplace policy and program in their business. Do the benefits outweigh the costs? Do I really care what my employees are doing on their own time?
YES, the benefits do outweigh the costs, and YES you should care what your employees are doing on their own time. Why? Because it does affect your business in many ways.
First, and foremost it could affect you employee’s productivity in their day to day performance. This affects your bottom line.
Second, drug or alcohol use on the job could cause accidents and worker’s compensation injuries. Again, this can affect your company’s bottom line.
Third, accidents can open the door to law suits and liability to your company.
The Department of Transportation regulates certain government agencies to participate in a DOT random drug and alcohol testing program.
The program requires participation in the following drug and/or alcohol testing:
• Pre-employment
• Random
• Reasonable Suspicion/Cause
• Post-Accident Testing
• Return to Duty (After donor has had a positive test)
• Follow-up
Many states follow this program for some of their state and local agencies because the program works. This includes limo drivers, taxi-cabs, and small buses under 15 passengers.
DOT employees are required to have a negative pre-employment drug test before they can participate in a safety sensitive position. Pilots, Class A and B truck drivers, maritime employees, and certain railroad employees, must pass a DOT drug test before they can work for a company under these regulations.
The DOT program requires each employee to read and sign a drug and alcohol testing policy that explains what their responsibility is and what they will be subject to under the program.
A similar program would work well for any employer who employs individuals who are in safety sensitive positions. Pre-employment drug testing is a must for any company who wants to have a company that works effectively and efficiently. A drug and alcohol testing program that mirrors the Federal Regulated program is an added insurance policy that all your employees will work in a safe environment. A policy and program can be constructed to fit the needs of any company.
DrugfreeUSA provides a variety of programs for both regulated and non-regulated companies.
For more information, please call 530-832-4100 or visit www.drugfreeusa.com.