Recent studies show at least 8 percent of employees working full time in the United States are abusing drugs. This statistic is alarming to say the least, reducing this percentage is not an impossible task. In fact, a drug free policy alone can help to reduce the number of employees who are using drugs. A drug free policy often involves a criminal background check because it’s essential to test job applications for illegal substances before hiring. Implementing a drug free policy at the workplace requires DOT compliance services.
Companies in America experience 571 million lost days of work every year because of alcohol abuse alone. Implementing a drug free policy and random testing is currently the only way to reduce statistics like these. A drug free workplace program requires a lot of planning and the services of a professional company that provides plenty of solutions for screening and testing. One of the main reasons why business owners should be interested in a drug free policy is the fact that these programs can limit the business owner’s exposure to certain liabilities. In fact, work related injuries are heavily impacted by drug and alcohol use.
In 2010, over 7 million people used psychotherapeutic drugs for non medical reasons. This number can greatly impact the safety of a workplace. Implementing a drug free policy is proven to enhance the safety of a workplace by deterring employees from using psychotherapeutic drugs and other drugs. Companies that specialize in developing a drug free policy for their customers offer consulting services along with testing and screening services.
Surprisingly, over 1 million people used hallucinogenic drugs in 2010. Hallucinogenic drugs are especially dangerous at the workplace, and employees become not as productive if they are using illegal drugs. A drug free workplace policy can improve the attitudes of employees and team leaders as well. Even marijuana use can impact the productivity of a work environment. Studies executed in 2011 show an increase of marijuana use by Americans. In 2008, 6.1 percent say the use cannabis, and in 2010, this number increased to 6.9 percent. A drug free policy should never be underestimated because of the amount of positive changes that take place after implementing a drug free policy.
Helpful research also found here.