Commit to drug-free program
Use these tips to create a drug-free workplace.
According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, employers that are creating a drug-free workplace program should:
- Commit your organization's senior managers. Acceptance from upper management is critical to the program's success.
- Make the case for bottom-line improvements. Identify organizational indicators of substance abuse-related liabilities, such as increases in accidents, theft and property losses, security breaches, benefits utilization, absenteeism, training costs, and workers' compensation claims.
- Decide whether testing will be a part of your program. If so, then decide when, how and for whom testing will be administered. For example, will testing be for job applicants, all employees, employees in jobs involving safety or security, or employees who have had accidents? Also, determine whether testing will be periodic and announced or random.
- Call together key representatives. This might include departments such as occupational safety and health, security, employee benefits, and personnel. Employee representatives should be part of the process.
- Determine what disciplinary measures will be taken. Will employees who violate the policy face dismissal, suspension or demotion? What the process will be for employees who wish to appeal positive tests and resulting discipline?
- Consult legal counsel before the program is implemented.
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September 16, 2009Copyright 2009© LRP Publications
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