Drug abuse at the workplace negatively impacts both employees as well as employers in many ways. The recent UNODC (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime) report indicates that opioid use leads to loss of the maximum number of productive years. Around the world, 29.5 million adults are engaged in substance abuse according to UNODC. Close to 70% of health problems related to drug abuse stems from opioids like heroin. Amphetamines also account for a significant share of drug-related diseases. The Indian government has commissioned a nation-wide study to gain insights into the alarming rise of drug abuse in many regions. Available statistics show many major metros are struggling with substance abuse.
Why do drug abuse test at the workplace?
Employers have to deal with the direct and indirect consequences of drug abuse at the workplace. These include increased absenteeism, disengagement, workplace violence and damage to reputation, all of which can impact the bottom lines. An employee with drug dependency can experience any or all of the below:
- Withdrawal symptoms that include tremors, confusion, aggression
- Poor decision making
- Aggression and violence
- Poor memory and concentration
- Drug peddling at the workplace
- Absenteeism
Drug abuse test is now mandatory
In July of 2018, the Chief Minister of Punjab announced mandatory drug testing for government employees at all stages of their service. Substance abuse test is now compulsory, right from recruitment to promotion. It will also be included in the annual health screening for employees in the police force. The police employees will be tested for morphine, marijuana, amphetamine, propoxyphene (pain relievers), benzodiazepine (sleeping pills) and others. Given the seriousness of the issue, other states in India may well follow suit to make drug abuse test mandatory.
Best practices for drug abuse test Inform the employees: It is important to inform all new recruits or current employees about the drug abuse test policy at different stages of employment. Every employee should give written consent to the drug abuse test.
Repeat testing: Repeat testing is used to confirm a positive finding. But at times, if there is strong evidence of drug abuse in the face of a negative outcome, you can order a repeat test.
Choose the right drug testing partner: It is important to tie up with a reputed drug abuse test provider well versed with wide-ranging drug testing methods. While companies make fool proof drug testing policies, an experienced drug screening provider can help implement them. The drug screening partner has the competencies and resources to help your company meet the mandatory drug abuse testing regulations. AuthBridge is one of the top drug screening providers in the country, offering comprehensive testing through multiple drug panels. Write to us at communication@authbridge.com to schedule drug abuse tests and make your workplace drug-free.
Read More: HOW CAN A DRUG ABUSE TEST HELP?
