Drug Free Workplace

A drug free workplace is a commitment by a company to protect the safety, health and well being of its employees, while protecting itself from the problems caused by employees with substance abuse issues. 

A comprehensive drug free workplace program includes five elements:

1. Drug free workplace policy
2. Supervisor training
3. Employee education
4. Employee assistance program
5. Drug testing

Every business is unique.  Before designing a drug free workplace program, employers should examine the needs of their workforce and business to ensure there program will fit the needs of their company.  Although companies may choose not to include all aspects, research has shown that the most effective programs include all five components.    

River Region has been a leading provider of drug free workplace services in Jacksonville for over a decade.  From initial assessment through implementation and on-going compliance, River Region can help. 

Why have a drug free workplace? 

Implementing and enforcing a drug free workplace program is an important way companies can protect themselves, as well as their workers' safety and health.  The goal of these policies is to prevent impairment and improve safety by setting standards and holding workers accountable.  Having a well established drug testing program does not mean you do not trust or like your employees.  It means that you care enough about their safety and workplace security to protect them, and yourself, from the effects of on-the-job alcohol and drug abuse. 

Workplace substance abuse clearly compromise the safety of the workplace and the public by contributing to accidents and workplace injuries.  But when employees abuse drugs and alcohol, many other aspects of a business's operation, including its bottom line, bear the burden.  Some cost increases, such as absences, accidents, and errors are obvious.  Others, such as low morale and high illness rates, are less so, but the effects are equally harmful. 

Companies have enormous power to improve the safety and health of their workplaces by implementing drug free workplace programs.  By implementing a drug free workplace, employers have seen a decrease in workplace accidents, employee mistakes, absenteeism, turnover, as well as decreases in their workers' compensation claims.  Other benefits include improved employee morale and customer satisfaction.  Businesses in the State of Florida for a 5% discount on their workers' compensation premiums.