Health and Wellness

An Action Plan Against Substance Abuse

Substance-abusing workers are more likely to miss work, become injured and file workers’ compensation claims than drug-free workers, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.

The Labor Department recommends a five-step program for employers to use to fight the drug abuse problem:

• Write a substance abuse policy that covers employer expectations and possible sanctions.
• Train supervisors to observe and document unsatisfactory work or behavior.
• Educate employees, including explaining the policy, about the impact on the company and the services available.
• Offer employee assistance programs that include counseling and health promotion.
• Start a drug testing program to test all employees, workers involved in accidents, employees in safety-sensitive jobs or job applicants.