Employers are aware of the dangers of drug abuse. This is especially true in an industrial setting where employees are expected to observe caution while attending to various machines. Recent advances in the medical field have made it possible for employers to conduct regular screening at the workplace in an attempt to discourage drug abuse. While most stereotypical drug abusers may be unemployed, even highly experienced professionals are at risk of alcohol and drug use. Substance abuse users permeate every known sector of the economy.
In most cases, everyday stressors and unrealistic expectations from employers inspire incidences of drug use. When it comes to the subject of drug tests at work, two conflicting ideas often come up – the good that comes with ensuring that individuals in positions of responsibilities remain sober and its infringement on the right to personal freedom. As far as drug tests are concerned, this page has all the information needed about workplace drug tests.
Pros of Workplace Drug Testing
Workplace drug testing, though arguably, is key to promoting responsibilities among workers. Staying away from drugs goes a long way in cultivating responsibility among workers who are at risk or harming themselves or others while working under the influence. After all, would you feel confident knowing that the pilot flying the plane you are is under the influence of some drug?
Another reason why employers encourage workplace drug testing is to help them identify employees in need of help. Most people struggling with substance abuse tend to be highly secretive. Thus, drug testing takes the place of honest self-reporting, which is quite rare.
Workplace drug testing serves as a deterrent to drug abuse. This saves workers from the effects of drug abuse, such as ill-health and the likelihood of being injured while at work.
Cons of Workplace Drug Testing
Workplace drug tests are primarily considered an invasion of private space. With an employee at the receiving end, it is unfortunate that these tests do not take into account the stressors that most employees are subjected to.
These tests do not also take into account the mental health problems that most people today have to live with. In light of this fact, drug tests should be part of a course of action; and not a way to discriminate employees who use alcohol and other recreational drugs.
There is no denying that drug tests are here to stay. As such, employees struggling with a drug addiction should try any possible way to beat these tests. And considering that most organizations use urine tests, a urine test kit might be the ultimate savior to any employee.
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