The program offers a multi-faceted approach to preventing alcohol and other drug problems in the workplace. Through several consortia, members have access to lower-cost Employee Assistance Programs and drug and alcohol testing. The drug problem in the United States is carried into the workplace by employees. In 1997 over six million of current drug users were employed full-time. An additional 1.6 million worked part-time.
Substance abusers are unlikely to apply at firms that have an established drug policy.
Instead, they will seek jobs with predominantly small businesses that do not routinely test applicants or current employees for substance use. This is over twice the rate reported by employees in larger firms. The drug abuse by American youth is carried into small and medium sized businesses as these individuals enter the work force. Often, the first jobs held by youth are with small and medium sized businesses. Drug Free Pennsylvania assists member companies in locating drug testing firms and other resources.