A Refresher on Maintaining a Robust Workplace Drug Policy

In the pursuit of fostering a safe and healthy work environment, implementing a comprehensive drug-free workplace policy is a pivotal step for employers. The nuances of these policies may vary, yet a common thread emerges – a staunch prohibition against alcohol consumption or illicit drug use or the misuse of prescription medications, especially prior to or during work hours – to prevent impairment and elevate safety standards.

As a supervisor, manager, or owner, acquainting yourself with your company's drug-free workplace policy is not just a task but a responsibility. You need to be capable of explaining the policy to your team. Equally crucial is ensuring that your workforce comprehends their responsibility to:

• Know the company's drug-free workplace policy.
• Adhere to the policy and set a positive example.
• Seek help if needed for themselves or their colleagues.
• Promptly notify you or management if they witness drug or alcohol use posing a safety threat.

Supervisors wield a significant influence in enhancing workplace safety by intervening and supporting workers grappling with alcohol or drug-related issues. Discerning the signs of substance misuse is paramount. Physical, emotional, and behavioral cues may manifest both on and off the job. From physical deterioration and increased aggression to unreliability and avoidance of responsibilities, supervisors must stay vigilant.

Documenting evidence of declining job performance is the initial step, and a vital one. This evidence, along with specific incidents and affected job functions, should be shared with appropriate company or union officials for guidance. A candid meeting with the employee, expressing concerns, and outlining improvement expectations is imperative.

Supervisors should take steps to address suspected substance misuse promptly. Documenting incidents, seeking professional advice, and setting expectations for improvement are pivotal. If the employee admits to substance misuse, prompt referral for professional assistance is essential. Even in the absence of acknowledgment, encouraging seeking help for potential personal problems is a compassionate approach.

In cases where a worker needs assistance with alcohol or drug-related issues, confidential resources like company employee assistance or union assistance programs can provide invaluable support. These types of programs should be outlined in your workplace’s drug and alcohol policy.

In conclusion, a robust workplace drug policy is not just a set of rules but a commitment to fostering a secure and healthy workplace. Supervisors, serving as the frontline guardians of this commitment, play a pivotal role in policy enforcement with empathy and sensitivity. By addressing substance misuse issues proactively, workplaces can evolve into environments that prioritize the well-being of every individual, ensuring safety and productivity in tandem.

Source: Working Partners - Drug-Free Workplace Materials - Substance Abuse Program Administrators Association. (n.d.). https://cdn.ymaws.com/www.sapaa.com/resource/resmgr/workingPartners/First-Line_Fact_Sheet.pdf