SUBSTANCE ABUSE IN THE WORKPLACE COSTS BILLIONS

Each year, substance abuse costs employers in the United States billions of dollars in expenditures for health care, workplace injuries, disability and sick leave payments and productivity losses.

Studies show that the vast majority of individuals with substance abuse problems work.  A recent study also showed that approximately 10% of the workforce has a chemical dependency problem.  These statistics cannot be ignored.

Employees who are substance abusers often fail to meet performance objectives, have increased rates of absenteeism amd lateness and often engage in high risk behavior like driving a car or operating a machine while impaired. Such employees are 5 times more likely to file a worker’s compensation claim and are more likely to steal from their employer or become involved in a workplace accident.

No employer should ignore this problem. Instead, all employers should be proactive in dealing with substance abuse in the workplace.  We recommend that all employers implement a drug free workplace program which includes a written policy.  The policy should include, among other things, a clear statement to employees of the behaviors that will not be tolerated at work including reporting to work under the influence, and using or distributing drugs or alcohol at work.  The policy should also state the consequences of violating the policy and a statement that the employer will maintain confidentiality and provide assistance to employees who request help in dealing with substance abuse.   

Other programs such as drug testing, supervisory and employee training, and wellness programs should also be considered depending upon many factors including the nature of the business involved.  For example, in a manufacturing environment, an employer could implement a drug testing policy in cases of workplace accidents where an employee is injured and/or assets of the company are damaged.

The attorneys at The Weinstein Firm are experienced in matters involving substance abuse in the workplace and assist employers in designing and implementing programs that meet the specific needs of their organization.