Workplace drug and alcohol screening (aka "drug and alcohol testing"). For most employers, this is a scary subject. The administrative burden, costs, and legalities can strike fear in any business. Luckily, Screensoft is here to solve these challenges.

The Department of Transportation (DOT) changed its drug-testing program regulations. They've added four semi-synthetic opioids to the DOT drug testing panel. DOT regulated employers should understand how this affects their drug testing program. Employers should also take steps to stay in compliance. 

At the core of any successful drug-testing program is a written policy. And despite what you may have heard there is no such thing as a "model," one-size-fits-all drug testing policy.

There are obvious reasons for drug testing in the workplace such as improving safety. For other reasons, you may have to take a closer look. Case studies have shown that drug testing in the workplace can improve employee health and increase productivity. Investing in drug testing is an expense but, there is a large return for your human resources department. 

Most businesses put workplace drug testing in place because of a recent incident on the job. There may have been rumors of employees using drugs or suspicious behavior. There may have been paraphernalia found on company property. Regardless of the reason, you need to answer these questions before you start drug testing employees. This will reduce your company's exposure to risk and liability. Your boss will thank you for doing the research. 

Be sure the executives, managers, and supervisors understand the laws and regulations that apply to your business. Everyone should be on the same page before taking these next steps. These will take you from planning a drug-free workplace to implementation.  

Federal and state agencies regulate safety and security industries to implement a drug-free workplace. If your business isn't regulated, you're volunteering to have a drug-free workplace. In either case, never assume that you aren’t liable for any wrong doings. We won't cover every state and federal regulation but, we'll point you in the right direction.

If you oversee the human resources department and have been tasked with implementing a drug-free workplace, you have a lot to learn. With proper planning, you can implement a successful drug-free workplace program but, businesses failing to understand their requirements and liabilities can face severe penalties and lawsuits filed by workers.