It’s not uncommon for employers to subject their employees to random drug tests. Employers conduct these tests to make sure their employees are sober and coherent while they work. Although some employees disagree with these policies, or are uncomfortable with them, employers have very good reasons for doing so. Let’s take a look at why a Drug free work policy in Charleston WV is so important, and what goes into making the policy work.
One of the reasons why drug free work policies are adopted by employers is to prevent work-related accidents. It’s a known fact that around 45% of the accidental fatalities that have occurred in the workplace were due to some type of drug or alcohol. Not only are these employees endangering themselves, but they’re endangering their co-workers as well. By discouraging drug and alcohol use in the workplace employers are keeping their workers safe.
An employer may also implement a Drug free work policy in Charleston WV in order to save money. Studies have shown that drug free work policies are important and effective cost-saving techniques for businesses. For example, as much as 50% of all workers’ compensation claims here in the U.S. involve drug and alcohol use by workers. These claims only make insurance coverage more costly for employers.
Each employer may have their own way of creating and executing these policies. All employers usually start out by writing a personalized policy that’s specific to their company. Businesses will work closely with their lawyers in order to specify the rules and guidelines that all employees must follow. As long as the Drug free work policy in Charleston WV is legal and concise employers can require their workers to follow it.
Just handing out the policy isn’t enough. It’s important that all employees are educated on the importance of staying sober while working on the job. The burden of teaching and educating these workers is on the employer. Employers often work with professional trainers who make it a priority to spread awareness about the topic to the workers.
Promoting and requiring a drug free workplace environment is very beneficial. By requiring DOT Physicals, drug testing, and alcohol testing employers will minimize accidents and create a safer workplace.
