NCJ Number
162145
Date Published
1990
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This manual presents step-by-step instructions for use by employers in establishing workplace drug abuse policies and programs.
Abstract
The text notes that 70 percent of all illegal drug users are employed either full-time or part-time. One in 12 full-time employees reports the current use of illicit drugs, and 1 in 10 people has an alcohol program. Drug abusing workers miss more work days, are more likely to injure themselves or others, file more worker's compensation claims, and are less productive than those who do not abuse drugs. Other costs of drug abuse in the workplace are diverted supervisory and managerial time, friction among workers, damage to equipment, poor decisions, damage to the company's public image, and personnel turnover. The five steps in establishing a comprehensive program are to (1) write a clear and comprehensive policy, (2) train supervisors, (3) educate employees, (4) provide employee assistance, and (5) start a drug testing program. Companies that perform certain types of work or have certain types of contracts with the Federal Government must comply with Federal regulations, including the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988. In addition, the Department of Transportation has issued regulations for employers engaged in commercial transportation industries regulated by the Department. Lists of organizations from which to obtain information and technical assistance