As an employer, why should you care?
Approximately 70 percent of people with drug and alcohol-related issues are employed. Based on the number of individuals in the United States struggling with substance abuse, the large majority is employed and some of them reported to work while under the influence. Drug and alcohol abuse does not have a face, and an employee suffering from AUD or binge drinking may be a respected member of your team. Employers increasingly understand the
importance and effectiveness of workplace programs to support employees struggling with drug use, alcohol abuse, or both and identify early signs of potential abuse. Early signs of potential abuse include workplace injuries, increased accident rates, absenteeism, loss of productivity, tardiness, sleepiness or
sleeping on the job, theſt, poor decisions, and not following established safety protocols. Employers should have the appropriate
mitigation plans in place to address the risks particularly regarding employee and public safety, quality control, and lost productivity. Employers use mitigation tools to identify and prevent workplace substance abuse such as pre-employment drug screening and industry specific drug and alcohol testing based on federal and state regulations. Each testing provides some level of benefit; however, they are heavily reliant on self-reporting and aſter- the-fact testing and may not sufficiently address workplace alcohol abuse. One of the most common methods of
proving support is Employee Assistant Programs (EAP). Over the years, EAPs
have evolved to address a variety of employee issues such as marital problems, depression, anger management, anxiety and physical illness; however, its original purpose and core function were to address employee alcohol and drug abuse.1 When employers address AUD early
before a safety incident occurs or while the employee’s disorder is considered mild, the chances of effectively mitigating safety risks and returning the employee to an acceptable level productivity are increased. Employers should consider the inclusion of educational programs and adoption of a proactive mitigation strategy. According to the National Council on
Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc. (NCADD), 60 percent of alcohol-related work performance issues are atributed to
Professional Liability Insurance designed just for you.
The Professional Liability Insurance Program is endorsed by your Association, DATIA, and is specifically designed for drug and alcohol testing facilities. As a member of DATIA, you are eligible for a competitive quote from an agency with a knowledge of your special insurance needs.
Insurance.BBT.com
Paula D. Layton 110 Dixie Street Carrollton, GA 800-356-9804
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datia focus
summer 2015
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