Employers continue to face challenges with drugs in the workplace. Do you have a drug testing policy?
According to the 2021 Quest Diagnostics Drug Testing Index, positivity rates for meth surged in the Midwest. While opiate positivity declines throughout United States, cocaine positivity increased in the Midwest and West. Marijuana positivity increased 16% in the general U.S. workforce during 2020.
As a general rule it can be said that as stress levels increase there is a corresponding increase in drug and alcohol use.
According to Dr. Barry Sample, Senior Director of Science and Technology, Quest Diagnostics, "There is no question that before COVID-19, rates of workplace drug positivity were trending in the wrong direction, based on our Quest Diagnostics data. The enormous strain caused by COVID-19 may prove to be an accelerant on this disturbing trend."
Employers Who Conduct Drug Screening Improve Workplace Safety and Productivity
Whether you have an existing program or are thinking about establishing one, the evidence shows that a solid drug screening program is a good business practice, especially when it includes random drug testing.
According to National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), employers who conduct drug screening:
- Reduced on-the-job accidents
- Decreased absenteeism
- Lower healthcare costs
- Improved employee productivity
- Reduced employee turnover
- Lower workers’ compensation costs
A good drug testing policy will help you keep your workplace safe, reduce your liability, and save you money.
CIC Drug Testing
CIC has been helping clients with their drug testing needs for over 20 years. We have partnered with a Nationwide Lab Network that provides collection sites in all 50 states to help you with employment-related drug screening. In order to meet all of your needs, we offer standard drug panels, DOT panels, and a random selection process that includes an expert MRO review.
For more information about this article, how to set up a Drug Testing Program, or general Employment Screening Services, please contact us at 1.800.573.2201 / 419.874.2201.
