A workplace is a location where someone works for an employer, either in an office or a factory. A healthy and safe environment must be upheld in the workplace to protect the well-being of both employees and employers. Most of us think that drug users are only the unemployed and homeless, whereas, according to the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD), about 70 percent or more drug users in America are employed.
Having drug testing providers is one way for an employer to ensure that both employees and employers are protected from the dangers of illicit drug abuse. Companies lose millions of dollars per year due to loss of productivity and even injuries of employees who are experiencing substance abuse. Here are reasons why a company should implement drug testing policies and introduce drug testing kits :
1. Improves Productivity and reduces work problems
Drug use can hamper an employee’s performance, especially during working hours. Though some may argue that drugs could make a person “high-functioning” and can work longer hours, this is not a healthy way to promote productivity and may cause long-term damage to the person’s body. Frequent absenteeism can also be an effect of an employee’s illicit substance use and, in turn, affect the company’s daily productivity. Drug use by an employee could also cause work-related conflicts among colleagues and may promote absenteeism in others. Proper drug testing policies should be implemented to prevent this kind of situation.
2. Ensure safety for both employees and employers
Drug testing helps to ensure that employees are fit to work for companies, especially on high-risk jobs that involve operating and driving heavy machinery and handling chemical substances. This could also boost the morale of employees since drug testing policies ensure that employees are working in a healthy and safe environment. Helping employees who are suffering from drug abuse could be a way to address safety issues in the workplace.
3. Avoidance of future legal liabilities
No company in the world wants to employ a drug abuser (except maybe research companies that conduct studies on drug use). Allowing an employee to work under the influence of drugs could potentially injure or harm other employees, and the company could face legal problems due to failure to maintain the Occupational Safety and Health Act in the workplace. There are numerous drug testing providers that could help in providing easy-to-use and affordable testing kits for employers who want fast and reliable test results. Companies should also encourage a more holistic approach to drug testing and ensure their employees that this is for their well-being and not a way to reprimand them.
4. Discourages people from abusing substances
Workplace drug testing could create a safer environment for employees since this could discourage people from using illicit drugs. People are more reluctant to do something illegal if they know that there is a strict policy in place for it. It will also be easier for potential employers to hire a “cleaner” person for the job if proper drug testing has been conducted before hiring.
There are many methods by which employers could conduct workplace drug testing. One of the easiest methods is through a drug testing kit. No more complicated paperwork, which could save you time and effort. It could also provide reliable and quick results in no time. For your drug testing kit needs, please visit the Drug Testing Shop. There are over 11 kits to choose from, depending on your company’s needs. Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information.