labor lawAdivision of labor law center

The US Dept. of Labor says that “only by addressing drug and alcohol abuse among the entire workforce – those currently employed and those preparing to enter employment – can a drug-free American workforce be achieved.”

This is the reason behind expanding the existing Michigan Drug Free Workplace Alliance. The alliance was established in 2004 as the first cooperative agreement on improving worker safety through drug abuse prevention, with a focus on the construction and mining industries. The expanded program addresses substance abuse, specifically alcohol abuse and illegal drug use.

The Secretary of Labor, Elaine Chao, recently appeared at the signing of this expanded alliance. The signing took place at the US Census Bureau and involved leaders from five labor unions, who are members of the Drug-free Workplace Alliance, and leaders from five contractor associations.

According to the US Dept of Labor, drug and alcohol abuse is very costly for businesses. Costs include increased absenteeism, low employee morale, higher illness rates, errors and accidents. The OSHA says that many fatal accidents in the workplace are a result of substance abuse.

Many companies that are part of the alliance choose to take certain measures to protect their businesses from substance abuse. These measures include pre-employment drug screening and random drug testing.

These companies recognize that employers have enormous power when it comes to protecting their companies from alcohol and drug abuse. Educating employees about the dangers and encouraging those with substance abuse problems to seek help is the main way to combat this alcohol and drug abuse in the workplace.

Business owners have the power to prevent unnecessary dangers and expenses associated with drug or alcohol abuse. The best way to do this is by educating employees about the dangers and encouraging individuals with alcohol and drug problems to seek help. Some companies that are currently part of the alliance have chosen to use random drug testing or pre-employment drug screen in the substance abuse prevention programs.

A couple of the contracting societies present at the signing include the National Asphalt Pavement Association and the Association of Union Constructors.

This new alliance highlight’s the secretary’s commitment to working with unions and contractor associations to protect worker safety and health.

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