labor lawAdivision of labor law center

To combat the problem of alcohol and illegal drug abuse in the workplace, the South Dakota Drug Free Workplace is expanding. The problem of abuse, both alcohol and illegal drug, has a huge impact on employers. Not only do these abuses cost employers by resulting in high levels of absenteeism, they also cause an increase in mistakes and accidents, some of which are fatal. Other problems, such as low employee morale, are also attributed to alcohol and drug abuse.

Employee education is one approach employers can use in the fight against alcohol and drug abuse. Employees need to be educated on the dangers of abuse. Moreover, help should be available to employees with abuse problems, and these employees should be encouraged to take advantage of this help. In addition, many companies utilize both random and pre-employment drug testing to reduce this workplace problem.

What does the South Dakota Drug Free Workplace Alliance hope to accomplish?

Through education, the South Dakota Drug Free Workplace Alliance hopes to reduce the impact of drug and alcohol abuse on the workplace.

What effect do alcohol and drug abuse have on the workplace?

Alcohol and drug abuse cause businesses to experience higher rates of absenteeism, along with an increase in the number of accidents and employee mistakes. Moreover, employee morale is lower and the rate of illnesses can be higher.

How can employers help?

Educating employees about the hazards of alcohol and drug abuse is the key when it comes to employers protecting their businesses. Encouraging employees with alcohol and drug abuse problems to seek help is another way employers can protect their businesses.

The South Dakota Drug Free Workplace Alliance tries to help businesses deal with the issue of drug abuse. Abuse costs the nation’s businesses dearly. Alcohol and drug abuse result in a higher level of absenteeism, plus more accidents and mistakes. The problem also can result in employee morale that is low and an increase in employee illnesses. Moreover, OSHA maintains that alcohol and drug abuse are involved in many of the workplace accidents that result in fatalities.

Last 10 posts by Amelia

• COBRA Subsidy Extended Again - March 5th, 2010
• New York Uniform, Meals and Lodging Rules - February 10th, 2010
• New York Non-Exempt Employee Rules - February 3rd, 2010
• New York Tipped Minimum Wage is $4.75 - January 27th, 2010
• Oklahoma Direct Deposit - January 20th, 2010
• 2010 Minimum Wage Recap - January 1st, 2010
• Vermont Minimum Wage 2010 is $8.06 - December 30th, 2009
• New GINA Regulations - December 23rd, 2009
• Kansas 2010 Minimum Wage Increases to $7.25 - December 9th, 2009
• 2010 Washington Minimum Wage is $8.55 - December 2nd, 2009