NCJ Number
122998
Date Published
1989
Length
592 pages
Annotation
This handbook provides employers with the information and guidelines required to control substance abuse in their workplaces.
Abstract
An overview of the drug and alcohol problem in the workplace is followed by a presentation of medical data on drug effects and drug treatment. A critique of the various techniques employers use to combat substance abuse encompasses searches of employees and their property, employee surveillance, psychological and lie-detection testing, urine testing, blood testing, and fitness-for-duty examinations. Urine testing and the rapid eye test are examined in detail. A separate chapter addresses the special problems of alcohol. The legal issues in employee drug testing are distinguished according to whether the testing is conducted by private or public employers. The role of unions in determining employer methods for controlling employee drug use focuses on contract negotiations and language, and arbitration findings regarding various issues in employers' drug control policies. Other issues discussed are disability benefits, unemployment compensation, and workers' compensation; employee assistance programs; and specific procedures, policies, and programs. Chapter references, subject index, appended supplementary materials.