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It is understood by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, that drug and alcohol impairment can produce preventable workplace hazards. Drug-free workplace programs are one way to improve worker safety and add quality to American companies. The OSHA firmly encourages comprehensive drug-free workforce programs. It is of particular interest for occupations that include injury-susceptible responsibilities like operating machinery.

With support from the OSHA, the Indiana Drug Free Workplace Alliance is being expanded. This alliance was the first cooperative agreement involved with improving worker safety by preventing drug abuse. It was established in 2004. In the opinion of the OSHA, Indiana employers have tremendous authority in protecting their businesses from drug and alcohol abuse. They have the ability to educate their employees about the dangers of working with a drug-related problem. Employers have the influence to encourage people to get help.

The alliance reflects the country’s commitment to working cooperatively with contractor associations and unions on the common aim of protecting worker health and safety. Quite a few companies that take part in the Indiana Drug Free Workplace Alliance use indiscriminate drug testing on their employees. Another method of this hazard prevention is to pre-screen prospective employees for drug use prior to hiring.

There are a recorded 16.7 million adult individuals who take part in illegal drug use. Almost 75% of those people have either part time or full time jobs. That means there are 12.4 million adults with drug problems who are working. The majority of drug users are employed, so that means that there is certainly a prominent threat to worker safety and health.

The alliance deals with alcohol abuse and illegal drug use. According to the Department of Labor, United States’ businesses pay a tall price for alcohol and drug abuse. Some expenses include greater than before absenteeism, accidents and blunders. Other costs are not as serious, for example and higher rates of illness and low employee morale. Auto accidents that are work related are mostly due to alcohol abuse or illicit drug use, according to the OSHA.