However, studies show that workers who are substance abusers have significantly higher rates of workplace accidents, file more workers' compensation claims, have higher medica l benefits costs, and are absent more often. Studies also show that workers who abuse substances are less productive than their co-workers. Many employers can easily recognize workplace substance abuse. However, sometimes the signs are not so obvious. Fortunately, much information is available to help employers.
Help is just a telephone call away.
The Workplace Helpline is a toll-free resource for business owners, supervisors and managers, and union leaders to call for assistance in developing and maintaining a workplace substance abuse program. The Helpline, which is operated by the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention, a component of the Department of Health and Human Services, also distributes materials regarding policy development, Federal regulations, drug testing, and other related issues. Counselors can also refer callers to local contacts that can provide direct assistance. At the core of the Working Partners Initiative is a small business workplace kit. The kit contains industry-specific information to help trade association executives understand the nature of the substance abuse problem, how it affects the workplace, and what employers can do to address it.