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A drug-free workplace is an environment in which employees are prohibited from being under the influence of illegal drugs and controlled substances while on the job. Employers may implement drug testing, drug awareness programs, and education initiatives to maintain drug-free workplace culture.

Looking at the drug abuse trend, American Addiction Centers reported that 66% of employees use alcohol during work hours, with marijuana being the second most common substance consumed by 22% of employees during work hours. These figures are staggering and suggest that workplace drug abuse is a serious problem.

Before moving towards how beneficial a drug-free workplace policy is for you, make yourself accountable for the following questions:

  • Do you intend to increase employees’ productivity?
  • Do you want to reduce employee turnover?
  • Do you wish to improve the health of your employees?

With this practice, you may be able to figure out the potential benefits of a drug-free workplace more efficiently.

Advantages of drug-free workplace

The drug and alcohol policy in the workplace offers a multitude of advantages, both for the employer and for their employees such as:

1. Improved morale

When employees are not under the influence of drugs, they tend to be more productive and better able to work together with their colleagues. This is because drug use impairs judgment, disrupts the ability to focus, and can cause a range of physical and emotional issues that can inhibit an employee's performance.

2. Increased safety

Drug-free work creates a safe environment not only for the employer, company, and employee itself but for co-workers and clients as well. Substance abuse can impair an individual's ability to perform their job safely, putting themselves and others at risk.

3. Reduced absenteeism

The drug-free workplace policy helps workers in staying active and productive while decreasing the chances of being absent from the job.

4. Lower healthcare costs

Drug use can result in health problems that require medical attention, resulting in higher healthcare costs for the employer while keeping your company free from drug use reduce the burden of the cost being spent on healthcare interventions.

5. Better reputation

Companies that maintain a drug-free workplace program are often viewed more favorably by customers and potential employees, which can help to expand the business and attract efficient employees.

6. Enhanced employee retention

A drug-free workplace can create a positive and supportive work environment that helps retain employees and reduce turnover.

7. Increased productivity of the business

It helps employees to focus on their work and improve their performance, leading to increased productivity for the company.

8. Supports compliance with federal and state laws

Several safety-sensitive companies are federally regulated to maintain a drug and alcohol-free workplace. By maintaining it you may remain compliant with state-implemented laws.

Summary

The goal of a drug-free workplace is to promote a safe, productive, and healthy work environment while reducing the negative consequences associated with drug use, such as decreased job performance and increased absenteeism. Employers are encouraged to develop and enforce clear drug-free workplace policies to ensure compliance and protect the health and safety of their employees and workplace.

Contact us at goMDnow and start your journey towards a safe drug-free workplace.

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