Addressing Alcohol and Drug Use in the Workplace

Alcohol and drug use in the workplace is a serious problem and especially so when it affects a safety-sensitive Department of Transportation employee. Alcohol and drug use in the workplace contributes to issues like absenteeism, injuries, fatalities, lost productivity, theft, and increase in healthcare and legal liabilities. According to Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA), 68.9% of all drug users are employed and active in the workplace.

What Can Employers Do About Alcohol and Drug Use in the Workplace?

Employers can drastically help in reducing the negative impact of alcohol and drug abuse in the work place by implementing (and adhering to) drug-free workplace regulations and other written substance abuse policies to educate employees about the health and productivity hazards of alcohol and drug abuse.

According to DOT Rule 49 CFR Part 40 Section 40.11 on employer responsibility, an employer is responsible for all actions of their officials, representatives, and agents in enforcing the requirements of the DOT agency regulations. The DOT also requires that commercial drivers license holders and their employers follow alcohol and drug testing rules.

Research has demonstrated that treatment of alcohol and drug abuse produces:

  • Increased morale and productivity among employees
  • Drastic reduction of absenteeism and accidents
  • Decreased cost of insurance, such as workers’ compensation
  • Reduced employee turnover
  • Reduced employee theft

If you employ DOT safety-sensitive employees and have an employee or applicant that has failed a drug or alcohol test get in touch with SAP Referral Services (SRS). SRS is a leading facilitator for mandated substance abuse and psychological evaluations within North America and can connect your employees with a qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) in their geographic region. SRS is dedicated to helping employers adhere to federal regulations and company policies and has assisted over 3,900 employers and nearly 20,000 employees in the Return-to-Duty process.

source: Drugs and Alcohol in the Workplace