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Resolve to be drug-free!

Posted By: Tammy Scully

Resolve to be a drug-free workplace in 2009!

According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency, the problem of drug and alcohol abuse remains a serious issue in our country. 76.4% of all adult illicit drug users are employed. The Department of Labor estimates that the annual cost to American employers of on-the-job substance abuse is around one hundred billion dollars ($100,000,000,000)! "Drug users have a 66% higher absenteeism rate; they are 5 time more likely to file a workers' compensation claim; their health benefit utilization is 84% greater in dollar terms; and they are 90% more likely to suffer disciplinary action due to employee theft/fraud." (National Drug Screen Inc., 2008)

Why do I need a Drug-Free Workplace Policy?

Because the vast majority of illicit drug users are employed, every employer needs address this issue. If you do not have a drug policy in place, you are definitely a targeted workplace for drug users seeking employment. Drug users/abusers know which employers do NOT do drug testing!

What comprises this policy?

A comprehensive Drug-Free Workplace Program should include the following: a policy statement; and employee drug-awareness education program; supervisor training; an employee assistant program; drug and alcohol testing; and consequences for those who violate the policy. Many Kentucky employers are applying for the KY Department of Worker's Claims Drug-Free Workplace Certification - which can bring a reduction in work-comp premiums from many carriers.

How can UTC help?

Urgent Treatment Clinics' Occupational Medicine team can help you begin an effective drug-free workplace program or review your current practices. We can suggest the most appropriate drug screens ( you need to be testing for the most commonly abused drugs in Kentucky - not all drug screens are created equal); determine when to test for alcohol abuse; and even develop your entire Drug-Free Workplace Policy Program. Contact us at (859) 273-8882 for further information.

Sources: United States Drug Enforcement Agency, "Guidelines for a Drug-Free Workplace" National Drug Screen, Inc,; www.nationaldrugscreen.com