3 Important Benefits of Drug Testing
How Drug Testing helps protect employers and employees
According to a study done by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in 10 Americans uses illicit drugs. Illicit drug use significantly impairs an individual and in many cases can lead to lasting addiction or habitual use. The use of illicit drugs poses an especially high risk for people at work because of an increased chance of on-the-job accidents and injuries. Drug testing provides both employers and employees with the ability to make the workplace a safe and more productive location. Here are three reasons for a drug test at work:
- Promotes a Safe Workplace
Drug use at work has some negative impacts on the safety of the employees:
- Impaired decision making
- Reduced reaction time
- Increased accident rates
Alcohol and drug use during work impairs the judgment of the users and can lead to twice as many incidences of workers’ compensation claims. Drug testing allows for only those workers who have shown that they are not using or abusing drugs to be operating heavy machinery or handling sensitive workplace information.
- Increases Productivity
Studies show that drug use by employees decreases their productivity significantly. This results in:
- Low Morale
- Absenteeism
In a poll conducted by the Society for Human Resource Management and the Drug and Alcohol Testing Industry Association for drug testing effectiveness, the implementation of drug testing programs increased productivity for 1 in 5 companies. High employee absenteeism appears to be reduced by drug testing programs as well. Additionally, employees will know that the company is committed to providing a safe work environment, which will increase employee morale.
- Lowers Costs for Employers
For employers, drug testing benefits them in two ways:
- Lowers Costs for Employees
- Promotes the proper work culture
For employers, conducting pre-employment drug screenings is a great way to significantly reduce costly turnovers due to drug use. The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence reports that people who have had three or more jobs in five years are twice as likely to use illegal drugs. And having a known drug-free workplace policy promotes a positive work culture, which makes your business a desirable place for your employees.
The benefits of conducting drug testing far outweigh the costs. The increased safety and productivity and the lack of drugs in the workplace make for a much healthier, safer, and more positive environment for the employees. Simply noting that your company performs drug testing is usually enough to dissuade drug users from applying to your company.
