Substance abuse poses risks to your workers and your business. Surveys show substance abuse remains one of the most serious issues facing U.S. businesses, with more than 6 million active alcoholics employed and a price tag of $276 billion a year. More than 70 percent of all current illicit drug users age 18 and older are employed.
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Download NowThe Drug-Free Workplace Act is a federal law that requires federal contractors or grantees to have and distribute a written policy explaining the rules relative to drugs. It also requires a drug awareness program.
Employers not covered by the Act or similar state laws can create their own drug-free workplace initiatives. The experts recommend that a program be designed to meet the particular needs of the workforce and should involve employees at all levels.
In a related article, learn how to recognize signs of possible abuse.
For more information about alcohol and other drugs at work, and help establishing a program, visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website, www.samhsa.gov.