Employers may choose to drug test their employees for various reasons, including:
- Safety: Drug and alcohol abuse in the workplace can have serious safety consequences, particularly in jobs that involve working with heavy machinery or equipment or in other high-risk environments. Employees who are under the influence may be more prone to accidents, injuries or fatalities, and can put themselves and others at risk.
- Legal compliance: In some industries, employers are required to drug test their employees to comply with certain federal or state regulations, such as the Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations.
- Productivity: Employees who abuse drugs or alcohol may have a negative impact on productivity, including absenteeism, tardiness, and decreased motivation.
- Company image: Drug abuse in the workplace can negatively impact a company’s brand image, particularly if the company provides services that require trust, accountability, and careful attention to detail.
- Risk mitigation: Performing drug tests on employees can help mitigate the employer’s risk by identifying employees who engage in drug use and creating a safer work environment that can lead to fewer insurance claims and lower liability costs.
Drug testing can be done in various ways, including urine, hair, saliva, or blood samples, depending on the employer’s needs and preference. Employers should also follow federal and state laws and guidelines regarding drug and alcohol testing to avoid any potential legal issues.