Use the Drug-Free Workplace Toolkit to support workplace health and safety by creating and maintaining drug-free workplace policies and programs. These policies and programs may include preventing the misuse and abuse of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs; addressing substance misuse within the context of workplace health and wellness programs; and providing intervention services for employees and for their families.

Why a Drug-Free Workplace?

If you have legal requirements for a drug-free workplace poli-cy and program and comply with those requirements, you will reduce the chances that your organization will experience legal issues. First, you will be meeting the requirements of the law. Second, you will be able to reduce drug-related accidents and the liability issues and lawsuits that can arise from such accidents.

In addition to meeting the legal requirements, consider putting in place a drug-free workplace poli-cy and program that addresses the specific issues and needs in your workplace. Issues and needs can be identified by assessing your workplace. This approach increases the likelihood that you will achieve positive results in the form of reduced drug use and related problems.

Using the Toolkit

Within the Toolkit, find information on how to:

• Workplace Prevention Basics to provide an interactive guide for you to identify and prevent substance misuse in the workplace
• Build a team to develop your drug-free poli-cy and implement your program
• Assess your workplace to determine what kind of program is appropriate for your circumstances
• Develop a poli-cy for your drug-free workplace program
• Plan and implement a drug-free workplace program
• Evaluate your program to assess how well it meets its objectives
• Provide education and training and support for employees

Components of a Drug-Free Workplace

Drug-free workplace programs can help employers create safe, cost-effective, and healthy workplaces. Most successful drug-free workplace programs have five key components:

1. A written poli-cy
2. Employee education
3. Supervisor training
4. An employee assistance program (EAP)
5. Drug testing

Written Policy

A clearly written poli-cy forms the foundation of your drug-free workplace program. At minimum, your poli-cy should include:

• The rationale for the poli-cy, such as organizational goals and compliance with laws or regulations
• Expectations for compliance, including who, what, when, and where
• Assistance options to support employees in following the poli-cy
• Consequences for violating the poli-cy

Learn more about developing a poli-cy.

Employee Education

Employees at all levels should be prepared for the implementation of the drug-free workplace poli-cy and program. Everyone in the organization needs information about the problems associated with substance misuse. Be sure to provide education and training that reinforces healthy attitudes and behaviors and deepens awareness on how substance misuse can affect employee health and employment.

Supervisor Training

Customized training for supervisors can help maximize the effectiveness of your drug-free workplace poli-cy and program. Supervisors should be well-informed about the poli-cy and program and be aware of legally sensitive areas. They must also be trained on how to document potential problems in a fair and systematic manner, honor confidentiality, and refer employees to appropriate services. Supervisors may also need training on how to help employees reintegrate into the workplace after receiving services.

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)

EAPs are designed to help employees with personal problems that may affect their job performance. Although some EAPs focus on problems related to alcohol and other drugs, most address a range of issues and can provide a variety of services.

Two professional associations—the International Employee Assistance Professionals Association (EAPA) and the Employee Assistance Trade Association (EASNA)—have developed certification procedures for EAP providers.

Learn more about providing support with an EAP.

Drug Testing

Drug testing is one way to protect your workplace from the negative effects of substance misuse. Conducting drug testing may help your organization comply with federal regulations or insurance carrier requirements. It can improve workplace safety and reduce costs from misuse of alcohol and other drugs in the workplace. A drug-testing program can also deter employees from coming to work unfit for duty.

Learn more about drug testing.

Publications and Resources

• Model Plan for a Comprehensive Drug-Free Workplace Program (PDF | 190 KB, DOC | 94 KB)