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OPA News Release: [08/16/2007]
Contact Name: Mike Biddle
Phone Number: (202) 693-5051
Release Number: 07-1217-NAT

U.S. Department of Labor announces Drug-Free Work Week 2007 will take place October 14 through 20

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Labor today announced that this year's National Drug-Free Work Week will take place October 14 through 20. The purpose of Drug-Free Work Week is to educate employers, employees and the general public about the importance of being drug-free as an essential component of a safe and healthful workplace. Now in its second year, the annual campaign is a collaborative effort between the department and members of its Drug-Free Workplace Alliance; however, all employers and employees are encouraged to participate.

Throughout Drug-Free Work Week, the department and alliance members will conduct various activities to help employers, supervisors and workers understand how to implement effective drug-free workplace programs that focus on detection and deterrence while also offering assistance and support for workers who may have problems with alcohol or drugs.

The themes of Drug-Free Work Week have widespread relevance, according to a recent survey conducted by the Hazelden Foundation, a national nonprofit organization that helps people reclaim their lives from the disease of addiction. The Hazelden research found that while most human resources practitioners recognize substance abuse and addiction as among the most serious problems faced in today's workplace, few companies proactively address these issues with their employees.

"Drug-Free Work Week is a perfect time to remind employers and employees alike that reducing workplace alcohol and drug abuse is a crucial part of keeping workers safe," said Elena Carr, drug policy coordinator at the Labor Department. "Of course, in a safe and healthful workplace, every week should be Drug-Free Work Week."

Employers and employees in all industries can learn more about how to participate in Drug-Free Work Week and ways they can promote drug-free workplace messages — during the campaign and throughout the year — by visiting the department's Working Partners for an Alcohol- and Drug-Free Workplace Program Web site at www.dol.gov/workingpartners.