he contrary, many employees are not very happy about having to take drug tests and they are voicing their opinions. A recent study conducted by the LeMoyne College Institute of Industrial Relations suggests that, mandatory drug testing actually hurts workplace work place productivity and may promote the abuse of cocaine, booze and other drugs. The study also implied that these programs reduce employee productivity by as much as 33%, because it makes workers feel that they are not trusted by their employers. Lastly, the study points out that because drug tests tend to zoom in on marijuana (which only stays in the system for six weeks) some are turning to cocaine, and psychedelic mushrooms which leave little residue in the body (Workplace 1).Companies putting these testing policies in place must also consider the legal repercussions involved if they are not careful. Many firms have found themselves in violation of our Fourth Amendment protection against unlawful search and seizure, better known as a violation of privacy. Opponents claim that the tests are too costly, ineffective, and prone to abuse. Random testing is a risk in many states, but if the employee is in a position in which drug use could result in the death of an employee or the death of others, random testing is usually OK. Another way employers are evaluating the need for a test is by “reasonable suspicion” which could also be a viable lawsuit for an employee. It is left for the supervisor to determine if a worker is acting improperly and thus warrant the need for a test. Last year 73% of employees sent to SmithKline for testing were clean, and could have cases for invasion of privacy, or infliction of emotional distress (Flynn 109). Schools may be going a bit overboard as well. More and more districts are requiring random drug testing. This time it is not just athletes in line, but also students involved in any after-school activities. A school in Indiana is re...
