Employer Tips for a Drug-Free Workplace

While employers and employees within safety-sensitive positions must follow the Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act, they may not have a clear plan on how to facilitate a drug and alcohol-free workplace within their work culture. The importance of maintaining an open and upfront environment about the company’s drug and alcohol policy is paramount.

The Importance of Retaining Employees and Maintaining a Drug-free Workplace

There are numerous advantages to retaining as many employees as possible. Some of them include:

  • Reduction in high turnover rates.
  • Less time training.
  • Saves money (less money spent on hiring and training).
  • Increases productivity (more seasoned, well-trained employees).

The advantages of a clearly-written and communicated drug and alcohol policy include:

  • Less unexplained absences.
  • More accurate workplace information.
  • Clear expectations.
  • Less chance of accidents.
  • Better communication within the company as a whole.

Tips for a Drug-Free Workplace

There are a few simple, yet powerful steps a company can take to maintain a drug and alcohol free workplace. They include:

Written Policy

A written policy should serve as the foundation of your program. At its core, the policy should include the company’s rationale (including goals and legal compliance), expectations, assistance options, and clear consequences for policy violations.

Employee Education

Every employee, regardless of their job position, should prepare and ready themselves to implement the new program. The company needs to educate employees about the policy, otherwise, the employees may not follow the program correctly.

Knowledgeable Supervisors

Supervisors should undergo customized training to maximize the drug-free workplace policy’s potential. The advanced training shows them how to handle difficult situations, document problems, keep confidentiality, and reintegrate returning employees.

Drug Testing

In addition to preventing workplace substance abuse, drug testing can help companies meet requirements for federal regulations or insurance carrier policies. Additionally, they increase workplace safety by filtering out individuals who are either under the influence or regularly use drugs.

Getting a Service Agent

Partnering with a service agent to refer employees who have failed drug and alcohol testing is vital to success. Employees will be referred to Substance Abuse Professionals in their area quickly so they can begin the return-to-duty process. If you are looking for a service agent, get in touch with SAP Referral Services.