NCJ Number
110063
Journal
Security Management Volume: 32 Issue: 3 Dated: (March 1988) Pages: 53-54,56,58
Date Published
1988
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article focuses on procedures for implementing a drug-testing program in the workplace.
Abstract
Drug abuse cuts through all levels of employment and is a problem in every sector of the business. The best tool available to eradicate drug abuse in the workplace is a sound, responsible diagnostic drug-testing program. Urinalysis is the core of any comprehensive drug program and serves many purposes, such as detecting drug users and preventing them from contaminating the workplace. Fifty percent of the Fortune 500 companies use drug testing, and that number is rising. When instituting a drug-testing program, the rights of employees must be protected and liability suits must be guarded against. A guide is provided giving step-by-step procedures to accomplish both, such as selecting a competent lab, documenting and protecting sample's chain of custody, and understanding the best methodologies offered and how screening procedures are set up. An important decision to make is whom to test, when, and how. Five basic situations in which urinalysis might be used are listed, including preemployment testing and monitoring employees with previous positive test results. Drug-testing policies should be communicated to employees clearly, exactly, and in writing. Employee assistance programs (EAP's) can be developed for counseling and rehabilitation.