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Arizona Drug Free Workplace Alliance

June 11th, 2007 Posted by Amelia

Thousands of accidents, errors, illnesses and injuries happen among workers in the United States every year, according to officials at the Dept. of Labor. Many of these accidents can be prevented and the total number of accidents can be reduced. The use of illegal drugs and the abuse of alcohol are often to blame for these unfortunate, and sometimes fatal, accidents.

The Arizona Drug Free Workplace Alliance is one of the major efforts towards making the work environment a safer place. Unions, contractors, and employees across the state are working together to improve worker health and safety. There is a five part plan to reducing the effects of drugs and alcohol on the workplace environment. They are:

Policy
Supervisor training
Employee education
Employee assistance
Drug testing

As with any employer plan or program, privacy rights must be respected. Drug testing should be done within reason. Employers have the power to influence the work environment. Any efforts to eliminate the presence of drug or alcohol abuse are steps towards a healthier and safe environment for all involved. If a worker does have a problem with substance abuse, they should be encouraged to seek help.

Avoidable errors and accidents are also costly for employers, and those involved. Missed days of work, medical bills, and certain mistakes can run an employee or an employer some high bills. If a serious accident occurs, no only may the worker be entitled to paid time off, but the other workers may have to pick up overtime hours, or more hired help will be needed. Overtime can get expensive for employers sometimes.

Alcohol and drugs impair the mind. Often, people with these problems have a lack of motivation to do their work. The physical affects of these substances can slow progress. If a person is not working at full potential it can cause work to be done at a pace that is not acceptable. That is another reason why it is important to ensure a drug-free workplace.