Illicit drug use and abuse can be especially damaging in the workplace. It can lower productivity and revenue as well as put the employees at risk. Anything can happen when an employee is under the influence of drugs and alcohol; they don’t usually listen to logic, or are very unreasonable themselves.
Today we’ll discuss some the reasons why random drug testing in the workplace is important.
It helps promote productivity.
Substance abuse can lead to absenteeism, inconsistent work quality, poor concentration, and carelessness which can lead to missed deadlines and in turn lead to drops in revenue. Random drug testing in the office allows employers to remove the weak links and prevent these negative effects from ever happening.
It is required in some industries.
Many US companies with jobs in transportation require random drug testing because it would be really dangerous to drive intoxicated or high. Traffic accidents usually occur when drivers are either drunk or narcotized.
Drugs that provide major concerns for employees include cocaine, ecstasy, heroine, methamphetamine and other non-medical prescription drugs. Cocaine drug testing should be done especially with jobs dealing with interaction to other people.
It provides safety and peace of mind for everyone.
Drugs is known to impair a person’s judgement which can cause workplace injury. The thought of a drug-free work environment can give the employer, employees, and customers peace of mind. Random drug testing ensures your employees can work without having to worry about their safety, while also giving the customers confidence about the type of product and services provided.
It reduces medical costs.
Studies show that business owners lose an estimated 81 billion dollars annually due to drug use. Random testing allows employers to decrease health insurance premiums by reducing drug-related illnesses.
It is a means for drug use prevention.
The reason why companies choose to have their employees and potential employees undergo drug testing is in order to prevent drug abuse and potential risk of safety and monetary loss for the company.
Random drug testing may help in achieving a drug-free workplace and can ensure the safety for all parties – the company, the employees, and the consumers. Although statistics show that 10% of employed Americans between the age of 18 to 49 admit to use illegal drugs, with the right rehabilitation program, and education, this problem will be prevented and most of these drug addicts can be cured.
