Drugs have become very prevalent in society with 60% of illegal world drug production being consumed in the United States. Due to the increase in drug related deaths, specifically prescription drug overdose, Houston has established a reputation being deemed one of the major hubs for drugs. This problem greatly impacts businesses in Houston and surrounding areas as many businesses are challenged in implementing measures that deter drug use among workers. Needless to say, many industries within the United States have recognized this problem among their workforce.
With the growing number of workplace issues, employers have become more vulnerable to workplace risks. An employee that participates in risky behaviors such as drug abuse, places an employer in a dangerous situation. Due to increased liability, a company becomes more vulnerable to problems within the workplace.
Risks can become very costly for employers as reflected in medical insurance premiums and lawsuits. Although various strategies have assisted employers in minimizing workplace risks, employers continue to assess alternatives that will aid in being most effective. As you begin to evaluate how a drug free workplace policy could protect your organization, these top reasons will be very influential in understanding how your organization can benefit:
As new issues emerge within the workplace, employers are challenged with safeguarding business operations. When a business fails to implement preventative measures, internal assets are compromised, unexpected risks can interrupt operations, and the quality of services can be impacted. In Texas, if you fire an employee for drug or alcohol use and do not have a written policy in place, the employee can claim unemployment benefits. To protect yourself from such unwarranted claims, invest in a drug free workplace using the Texas Workforce Commission's specific guidelines for drug testing in the workplace.
Investing in your workforce can be very cost effective. Not only does an effective drug free workplace policy aid in preventing drug use, it also demonstrates the company’s concern for its workforce. In fact, a drug free workplace policy allows employers the ability to protect the business by educating staff and increasing awareness of resources. Enforcing a drug free workplace policy is critical for employers in protecting the safety, health, and welfare of staff.
After all, businesses have an obligation to protect their human capital and physical assets.
📷: Rawpixel Ltd on Visual hunt / CC BY