Although national, state and local drug prevention efforts have begun to show encouraging results, the problem of substance abuse in the workplace continues to be a serious one. Numerous studies, reports and surveys continue to suggest that substance abuse is having a profoundly negative effect on the workplace in terms of decreased productivity and increased accidents, absenteeism, turnover, and medical costs. Employees who use drugs are three times more likely to be absent, four times more likely to be involved in a workplace accident, and five times more likely to file a workers' compensation claim. The good news is that this problem is not insurmountable.
Employers can take steps to reduce their exposure.
Establishing a drug-free workplace program that includes random drug testing is the place to start. An effective substance abuse program that includes random testing can keep you from being the employer of choice for drug users. As you read this edition of CompNews, you will learn about Fund policyholder N.L. Schutte Foundation Drilling, which has utilized random drug testing for the past ten years. This company credits its use of random drug testing with helping to build a quality work force and a healthy bottom line. You will also read about how the Fund stands ready to help you establish your own substance abuse program or refine an existing program.