Why More Companies are Testing Employees for Drugs

Recently you’ve probably noticed that more companies are testing employees for drugs. It took me a while to figure out why employers would put this into practice. Many would consider this a strict policy especially since recreational drug use is so common these days. However, after looking further into this practice I found some good reasons that companies would do this. When applying for many jobs a mandatory drug test is a requirement. I reversed the situation and thought about what I would do if I were to own a company. Would I make drug testing a mandatory requirement? The answer was a definite yes.

With that said, let’s explore the top reasons listed by companies for taking part in this practice. After reading them I’m sure you’ll agree that drug testing should be implemented by every company.

Protection

One of the main reasons that employers test employees for drugs is to protect other co-workers. One of the most important requirements for any employer is to protect the environment of their workers. If proper screening is not done and someone with a drug problem is hired it can be a huge risk to co-workers. An employee with a drug problem can lead to verbal assaults, theft, and inadequate completion of important projects. 75% of co-workers have stated that working with someone with a drug problem is very hard and causes a tense work relationship.

Increase Productivity

This point builds on the previous one and examines how it effects the rate of productivity. For example, employees with drug problems are less productive which hurts the overall work environment. We live in a time where competition is at an all-time high, and companies are trying to stay ahead by increasing growth, customer base, and their bottom line. The only way this is possible is by hiring employees who are self-motivated and give 100% all year long. An environment where workers have a drug problem causes a huge obstacle.

Deter Drug Use

Random drug testing deters workers from drug use. This procedure was adopted by professional sports teams which have been randomly testing for the past 20 years. Random drug testing makes sure the work environment stays productive and the company stays competitive. 84% of companies do perform random drug tests on employees- an increase of 20% in the last five years.

Reduce Medical Expenses

Fortune 500 companies have ultra drug plans which cover prescription drugs, dental, and therapy. It’s stated that companies spend close to one billion dollars annually to make sure their employees are covered for illnesses so they can get back on their feet. The sooner an employee is better, the sooner he or she is back in the workplace being productive making sure all assignments are completed. An employee with a drug problem will not only be unproductive but incur large medical bills which will be passed on to the company. Additional expenses affect the company’s bottom line, so they prefer to avoid such expenses by making sure all new employees are tested for drugs and existing employees are randomly tested.

Rehabilitation Option

Random drug testing more quickly identifies employees who have a drug problem. The sooner a problem is detected, the sooner proactive steps can be taken to ensure they get the right help. Many companies have policies which state that if someone has been hired and develops a drug problem, the company will ensure that proper rehabilitation is provided.

The Norm in Society

Drug testing is not only in the corporate environment, but is something which cities and states encourage. Following drug testing procedures establishes credibility within society. The company will be able to take part in government events, and even have other companies sponsor them for events, etc. In the end, the entire process is a win-win for both the company and the city/state.

Final Thoughts

Companies testing employees for drugs before hiring and randomly after hiring has become a norm in society. Personally, I think having such a policy in the workplace is a positive thing because it protects co-workers, increases productivity, and reduces medical costs. If you are still hesitant about accepting such a policy, ask yourself if you were to own a company whether or not you would want people tested before and after you hire them?

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