Many employers require new hires to undergo a drug test before being added to the payroll. WorkSafe offers drug screenings along with other occupational health and safety services. Why should you consider screening your staff for substances?
Discover the biggest benefits of drug testing in the workplace below. To take advantage of this service, contact WorkSafe, Wichita’s leading provider of occupational health services.
What Types of Drug Tests Are Available?
You can screen your employees for a wide range of substances via different screening methods. The most common tests include:
- Urine testing: A small urine sample provides experts with a comprehensive view of one’s health. These tests can detect traces of illegal drugs as well as certain imbalances.
- Alcohol tests: Breathalyzers show a person’s blood alcohol concentration to determine whether it’s under the legal limit.
- Oral fluid inspection: Labs test saliva to see whether the specimen contains any trace of illegal drugs.
- Hair analysis: A strand of hair is all you need to uncover drug use within the last 90 days.
Each screening method offers unique advantages. You may decide to implement one or more for optimal substance abuse prevention measures.
Top Five Benefits of Drug Testing in the Workplace
To some companies and employees, drug testing may seem unnecessary. However, both parties can benefit from standard drug screenings. Whether you choose to test new hires before they begin working, follow up with employees after an accident, or test your workforce at random, you can enjoy the following benefits.
1. It Ensures Workplace Compliance
Any form of substance abuse at work can be dangerous. An employee could harm themselves, colleagues, or customers. If a workplace accident occurs because someone has drugs or alcohol in their system, the company also comes under fire.
State or federal laws may require businesses to take specific steps to maintain employee safety. If drug testing falls under this protocol, the organization will remain compliant. Failing to adhere to these regulations may result in fines or other penalties.
2. It Increases Productivity
One of the biggest benefits of drug testing in the workplace is an increase in productivity. How do pre-employment or random drug screenings lead to productivity improvements? Consider the following example.
Say someone uses illicit drugs regularly. They’re often absent from work because of their substance abuse, but the employer can’t confirm this without a drug test. If the company implements random drug screenings, employees with substance abuse problems may either seek help or find new employment.
This leaves clean, responsible workers on the job. Companies can see their operations improve when they don’t have to worry about their employees’ health and safety.
3. It Boosts Staff Morale
At first glance, you might not be happy about a mandatory drug test at work. However, employee morale can actually improve in the long term with these screenings.
One of the possible side effects of substance abuse is behavioral changes. A drug or alcohol user may turn hostile or violent toward their coworkers. The impacted staff may experience emotional distress and even decide to walk away from their jobs as a result.
Of the many benefits of drug testing in the workplace, improved morale is one that employers can’t ignore. Companies retain talented team members by taking steps to make employees happy.
4. It Makes Work Safer
Drug and alcohol screening is effective for risk mitigation. Employers may be liable for any accident that takes place on their premises. One simple way to reduce the risk of accidents is to prevent workers from being under the influence.
Organizations may opt for testing whenever there’s reasonable suspicion. For example, if a commercial truck driver is about to start a shift and they’re slurring their speech and smell like alcohol, supervisors can request an alcohol test. Keeping an impaired driver off the road protects not only them but also other motorists and pedestrians.
5. It May Lower Insurance Costs
Do you offer health insurance to your employees? Providers may lower your plan’s cost when you embrace drug-testing initiatives. Not only will you and your staff save on insurance costs, but you’ll enjoy the benefits mentioned above, too.
Promote a Drug-Free Workplace With WorkSafe
Are you ready to reap the benefits of drug testing in the workplace? You can quickly identify marijuana, opiates, and other drugs in an employee’s system with WorkSafe’s comprehensive drug screenings. We promote occupational health and safety by offering this and other services to Wichita businesses.
Learn more about our drug screening solutions. Call 316-262-8800 to speak with an expert today.