labor lawAdivision of labor law center

OSHA records show that about 20% of workers that lose their lives at work test positive for alcohol or drugs. Accidents in the workplace that have not been counted are caused by substance abuse problems. About 12 million drug users are employed. It is no question that many of them are not able to separate their drug use from their work. Sometimes people show up to work under the influence.

Through the efforts of the Georgia Drug-Free Workplace alliance, many companies are able to fight against the harmful effects of drug and alcohol abuse on work environments. Accidents and avoidable errors occur as a result of alcohol or drug impairment, and, according to the OSHA, these expenses can be a high price for many businesses to pay. Illness rates also increase due to substance abuse, and related to that, absenteeism increases.

Some companies crack down on substance abuse among their workers with random drug testing. Many companies won’t hire anyone who is not willing to take, or does not pass, pre-employment drug screening.Elaine Chao, the current Secretary of Labor, recently appeared at a signing ceremony to expand the Georgia Drug Free Workplace Alliance. Established in 2004, this alliance was our country’s Dept. of Labor’s first cooperative agreement on bettering worker safety through drug abuse impediment. The expansion is a part of the continuing battle against substance abuse.

OSHA strongly supports ample drug-free workforce programs. Education on health and safety is a thriving point for the OSHA, so of course addressing drugs and alcohol in the workplace is recognized as an extremely important issue. Many of the accidents that occur as a result of illicit drug use and alcohol abuse can be avoided. By employers educating their workers on the possible dangers involved, regarding coworkers and themselves, they can reduce the number of accidents, or deaths, that occur. It is also a good idea to provide information on how someone with a problem can get help in the local area.

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