Is There a Stigma To Drug Screening?
Drug screening is a sensitive issue for employers and employees. On one hand, employers will hesitate about the time, effort and money required to establish a drug screening process. On the other hand, employees may hesitate to do the drug screening because of privacy issues.
But drug screening should be a part of corporate culture because of the numerous benefits it provides for both employers and employees. Studies have shown that an effective and efficient drug testing system contributes to increased work productivity, employee morale, and legal protection especially for certain industries, such as transportation, health, and education.
Employers have to create a culture of acceptance among their employees for the drug screening benefits to be enjoyed. Here are ways that you can create acceptance. (For more, contact any of the Healthpointe clinics, such as the La Mirada clinic near Whittier, La Habra, Norwalk, Cerritos, Buena Park, and Santa Fe Springs).
- Create a clear policy for drug screening
With a clear policy regarding drug screening, your organization will have a strong foundation, upon which procedures and processes can be formulated. Upper management must take the initiative in communicating with the concerned employees and independent contractors about the policy and its associated principles and practices, especially for first-time implementation. Keep in mind, too, that the policy should lean toward a supportive stance, not a punitive stand, which will foster a safer working environment.
- Educate the employees
Misconceptions about the drug screening policy can strengthen doubts among employees, thus, increasing their resistance against it. You should educate the employees about the drug testing policy – what it is, what its benefits are, and what the procedures will be, among other matters. The more information the employees know, the more likely that their concerns can be addressed and the more acceptance drug testing will have in the workplace.
- Promote awareness of the policy
Even when the employees have already been informed about the initial implementation of the drug screening system, you must continue to promote awareness about it. Your employees will appreciate that management keeps their welfare in mind especially where changes in the drug screening practices are concerned.
As to the testing procedures, be sure to coordinate with the proper authorities.
Contact our occupational health professionals at any of the Healthpointe clinics, such as the Long Beach clinic near Signal Hill, Carson, Seal Beach, Lakewood, Bellflower, Compton, Hawaiian Gardens, and Los Alamitos.
Healthpointe is a leading multidisciplinary healthcare organization offering a full range of medical services in practice locations throughout Southern California (Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Bernardino County, and Riverside County). Healthpointe has locations situated in over 10 cities in Southern California including Long Beach, which is conveniently located by Signal Hill, Carson, Seal Beach, Lakewood, Bellflower, Compton, Hawaiian Gardens, and Los Alamitos. As a highly regarded musculoskeletal group, we have a personal investment in the highest level of service, and we are proud of our record of excellence over the last four decades with private patients, injured workers, urgent care, personal injuries, and professional and non-professional athletes. Leading our organization is a dynamic team of healthcare professionals who continually strive to be at the forefront of medical innovation and healthcare service delivery. For more information, a complete list of services, and Healthpointe locations, visit Healthpointe.net.