Drug Screening Procedures

Drug screening can be a double-edged sword for employers.

Adopt the right procedures and it is a useful tool in preventing a wide range of drug-related workplace issues, such as tardiness, absenteeism, increased safety risks, and decreased productivity. Practice inappropriate steps, and it can lead to substantial legal fees and troubles as well as public relations setbacks.

Fortunately, there are steps that can be undertaken to significantly lessen, if not completely eliminate, the risks associated with drug testing for employees. Employers, or their human resource departments, can also hire independent clinics for drug testing services. These include the Healthpointe clinic at Temecula, which is near the Murrieta, Fallbrook, Wildomar, Canyon Lake, and Sun City areas.

First, agree on clear expectations with the people involved, especially with the employees. The drug testing practice should be outlined in the employee handbook and discussed through periodic orientation, memos and other methods of communication. The what, when, where, and how of the employee drug testing should be clearly explained.

Second, let the employee agree to the drug testing via a written document detailing the drug testing policy and its procedures. The document should also be specific to the job in the sense that it states the mental condition necessary for the safe performance of the job-related tasks. Keep in mind that each job requires a different level of physical and mental alertness.

Third, ask a lawyer about the legal standards for drugs, among other substances, including over-the-counter medications and alcohol. Emphasis must be made that there is no legal protection provided for users of illegal drugs while on the job; the employer’s discretion is required. Caution is a must, since an employee can allege that his privacy rights have been violated due to the drug screening policy and its procedures.

Fourth, test workers who are considered as high-risk employees. The rule of thumb: Don’t test all employees but don’t test employees randomly, either. Courts are more likely to accept the validity of the drug testing procedure when only the employees with high-risk jobs are tested, especially those that can threaten the life and limbs of fellow employees, customers and suppliers, and the general public.

Of course, employers cannot force their employees to undergo drug testing but other measures can be undertaken to protect the interests of both the other employees and the company itself.

The Healthpointe clinic at Perris, which is near Nuevo, Sun City, Canyon Lake, Homeland, Romoland, and Lakeview, offers independent drug testing services to employers. Visit today for more information!

About Healthpointe:

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 Irwindale, which is conveniently located by Duarte, Azusa, West Covina, Vincent, and Mayflower Village.  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 www.Healthpointe.net.