Employees that come to work under the influence of drugs not only put themselves in danger, but also those around them.
With this in mind, many workplaces implement controlled workplace drug testing programs in order to identify and dismiss those caught under the influence of illegal substances during working hours.
After all, working under the influence of any illegal narcotic can have a huge impact on morale, productivity and the reputation of your business. Illegal drug use has also been linked to increased crimes within in the workplace too.
The main goal of any employer is to protect its staff, maintaining a safe, productive and crime free workplace. With this in mind, we’ve created a guide outlining the pros and cons of implementing drug testing in your workplace!
What are the Pros?
Creating a safe environment
Firstly, one of the main advantages of drug testing in the workplace is the ability to maintain a safe working environment where all employees can conduct their day-to-day tasks safely and efficiently.
This is because, statistics have repeatedly proven that those who are under the influence of drugs at work are more likely to have a serious accident. They may also suffer impaired judgement and endanger themselves and others. This is particularly a concern in high-risk environments including manufacturing, aviation, road, rail and shipping workplaces.
Protect an Employer from Lawsuits and Worker’s Compensation Claims
Many employers do not realise that regular drug testing in the workplace can also protect them from worker’s compensation claims and lawsuits.
For example, if you are dismissing an individual due to illegal drug use and the individual in question believes that they are being dismissed unfairly, you will have the evidence to support your case.
But that’s not all, if you fail to notice that one of your employees is under the influence of drugs and an accident happens, you could be held responsible, especially if other workers are hurt.
Reduce crime rates
It’s been proven that those who take drugs are more likely to commit further crimes, leaving your business vulnerable to a whole host of potential issues and concerns.
For example, a drug user may be more likely to steal money to fund their drug habit or even steal from their colleagues.
So what are the cons?
A violation of privacy
Many people consider drug tests as a violation of their privacy and as a result are sometimes reluctant to be tested. This is mainly because many employees share the view that what they do in their own time is their business and that they should not be punished as long as they are fit for work.
Lower Morale
Drug testing has also been linked to low morale, especially if employees feel as if their morals and privacy are being questioned unfairly.
Test Results may be inaccurate or unclear
Like any form of testing, drug testing is not always accurate, meaning employees could be accused of being under the influence of drugs, even when they are not.
With this in mind, it’s important that your employees are aware of this during the testing stage in case a re-test is required.
If you need advice on this matter for your workplace, contact us to see how Oculus HR can help.
