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When it comes to workplace substance abuse, small businesses have big disadvantages. They are less likely than large companies to have programs in place to combat the problem, yet they are more prone to be the "employer-of-choice" for illicit drug users. Individuals who can't adhere to a drug-free workplace policy seek employment at firms that don't have one and the cost of just one accident caused by an impaired employee can devastate a small business.
The good news is that small businesses have enormous power to improve the safety and health of their workplaces and workers by implementing drug-free workplace programs that educate workers about the dangers of drug abuse and encourage individuals with related problems to seek help. Such programs help reduce work-related injuries and illnesses and send a clear signal that companies care about the safety and health of their workers.
Some small businesses do not effectively address the issue because of a lack of resources, such as staff to seek information about it and provide assistance to workers who have related problems. This reluctance may be reinforced by confusion over the cost of running drug-free workplace programs and what action can be legally taken, mainly regarding drug testing and disciplinary procedures.
Workplace Substance Abuse Articles and information sheets:
Information On the Dangers of Workplace Substance Abuse |
