accidents than that of non-users. This is because they often engage in riskier activities.Many times, they end up damaging equipment or property (Loomis).Now that we have discussed the seriousness of substance abuse it is easy tounderstand the need for a good substance abuse policy. More and more employershave established substance abuse programs to respond to the problems created bydrugs and alcohol in the workplace. These programs save organizations money, and in some cases, they save careers, families and lives (Loomis). Here are threebasic parts that can be used as a guide in developing a substance abuse policy thatworks well for your business: (Loomis)1. An explanation of why you are implementing a program, such as concerns for employees safety, improving the cost of doing business, and/or to comply with state or federal regulations.Page 42. A clear description of substance abuse-related behaviors that are prohibited, such as any illegal drug use or being at work under the influence of alcohol.3. A thorough explanation of the consequences for violations of the policy, including if applicable, termination.Everything should be included in the program. If drug and alcohol testing isincluded in the process that should be clearly stated in the policy (Loomis). After thepolicy is written then there should be no question that this is a drug free company.Usually, the fear of a written policy can be enough to turn things around (Loomis). Once the policy is written, you need to be sure you train your supervisors to recognizeand react to these situations using the new substance abuse policy as a guideline(Loomis). Make sure that your supervisors understand the policy as you have written itand that they completely understand the manner in which they must not only enforce itbut also abide by it. This training will greatly impact the effectiveness of your program(Loomis). Here are 5 suggestions that can be used to ass...
