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Safety and Health Topics |
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Substance Abuse |
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In
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The vast
majority of drug users are employed, and when they arrive for work, they
don't leave their problems at the door. Of the 17.2 million illicit drug
users aged 18 or older in 2005, 12.9 million (74.8 percent) were employed
either full or part time. Furthermore, research indicates that between
10 and 20 percent of the nation's workers who die on the job test positive
for alcohol or other drugs. In fact, industries with the highest rates
of drug use are the same as those at a high risk for occupational injuries,
such as construction, mining, manufacturing and wholesale.
OSHA recognizes that impairment
by drug or alcohol use can constitute an avoidable workplace hazard and that
drug-free workplace programs can help improve worker safety and health and add
value to American businesses. OSHA strongly supports comprehensive drug-free
workforce programs, especially within certain workplace environments, such as
those involving safety-sensitive duties like operating machinery.
A comprehensive drug-free workforce approach includes five components—a
policy, supervisor training, employee education, employee assistance, and drug
testing. Such programs, especially when drug testing is included, must be reasonable
and take into consideration employee rights to privacy.
OSHA understands that many workers with substance abuse problems can be returned
safely to the workplace provided they have access to appropriate treatment, continuing
care and supportive services.
Although not required by OSHA, drug-free workplace programs are natural compliments
to other initiatives that help ensure safe and healthy workplaces and add value
to America’s businesses and communities.
OSHA works closely with the US Department of Labor’s Working
Partners for an Alcohol- and Drug-Free Workplace program to help employers
ensure their health and safety plans are enhanced through workplace drug prevention.
In particular, OSHA and Working Partners strive to raise awareness about the
impact drugs and alcohol have on the workplace and provide information on how
to establish drug-free workplace programs. A particular focus is placed on
small
businesses, since they are less likely than their larger counterparts to
have mechanisms in place to prevent workplace substance abuse—despite being
more likely to suffer from its negative impact.
Also, the
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
Division of Workplace Programs provides guidance for employers on
workplace drug-testing issues, and its GetFit.SAMHSA.gov website
provides a range of information about workplace wellness issues, including drugs
and alcohol.
The following questions link to resources that may help employers in their
efforts to prevent workplace substance abuse.
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What OSHA standards
apply?
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How can small businesses effectively address the substance abuse issue in the workplace? |
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What components are included in a drug-free workplace program?
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What state and
territory resources are available to assist with drug-free workplace programs? |
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What federal and state laws and regulations may impact drug-free workplace programs?
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Are materials available to help train supervisors and educate employees? |
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What basic information is available about addiction, treatment, and recovery? |
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Where can I find help for someone who may have a problem with drugs?
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In Focus |
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News Releases
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U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao Launches Drug-Free Work Week. US
Department of Labor, OPA News Release No. 06-1798-NAT, (2006, October 16).
- Drug-Free Work Week Observed This Month. OSHA Quick Takes, Vol. 5, Issue 19, (2006, October
1).
- U.S. Secretary of Labor Announces Drug-Free Work Week.
US Department of Labor, ETA News Release No. 06-1653-NAT, (2006, September 22).
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U.S.
Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao Hosts Drug-Free Workplace Alliance Signing
Event at New U.S. Census Bureau Headquarters. US Department of Labor, OPA
News Release No. 06-1164-PHI, (2006, July 10).
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U.S. Labor Secretary Elaine L. Chao Signs Drug-Free Workplace Alliance Agreement
With Four International Labor Unions. US Department of Labor, OPA
News Release, (2004, October 12).
Hot Topics
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Drug Free Work Week 2007 Set for October 14-20. US Department of Labor/
Working Partners for an Alcohol and Drug-Free Workplace. Announces public
awareness campaign intended to highlight the fact that being drug free is key
to protecting workplace safety and health and to encourage workers with
alcohol and drug problems to seek help.
Alliances
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