One of the many unfortunate side effects of the Covid-19 pandemic is increased numbers in drug use, at a time when substance abuse was already on the rise. With the legalization of marijuana and a national opioid crisis, drug use is becoming tragically commonplace. While oxycontin and fentanyl get much of the publicity, Methamphetamine use is escalating, as are deaths resulting from its use.
“Methamphetamine is a powerful, highly addictive stimulant that affects the central nervous system.” “Meth, Tina, or ” as it is more commonly known, is highly addictive and dangerous. It has gained mass appeal as a substance that can release high levels of dopamine to boost alertness, physical activity, and weight loss. But these tempting “highs” are accompanied by a terrifying list of lows that can include irritability, confusion, insomnia, paranoia, and aggressive behavior, among other harmful side effects.
How Does The Methamphetamine Crisis Affect My Business?
As we frequently remind you, seventy percent of drug users in the United States are employed. While methamphetamine deceives employees into believing that being alert and accelerating their physical capacity might benefit their job performance, the reality is that meth use will cause workplace safety to take a drastic and potentially deadly turn.
What does that mean for business?
How Can I Protect My Business From Meth?
The best way to protect your business from the consequences of high meth usage is to prescreen during the hiring process to eliminate drug-addicted employees from the pool of candidates. This easy and upfront screening process will also set the precedent for workplace culture and expectations. You can then maintain that standard by drug testing employees post-hire. With illegal substances becoming easier to access, and with more people being lured in by the “highs'' these drugs offer in the short run, protecting employees through continued screening is as good for them and it is for you. Methamphetamine addiction is not easily combated, as there are few proven treatment methods. Keep your workplace safe by discouraging workers from participating in substance abuse in any form, right from the start.
How Do I Implement A Drug-Free Work Policy?
You’ve come to the right place! Workplace Safety Screenings offers on-site drug testing services. We can be available to provide drug screening services on your job site, any time day, or night. You can choose the drug screening program that will best serve the needs of your business or situation to ensure that you are keeping employees, customers, and your business safe.