Many employers require their employees to take drug tests before they begin work, and some even require employees to agree to random drug testing throughout their employment with the company. This can seem like a pointless process for many employees, but employers may require this for some very sound reasons. Learn more about what the purpose of workplace drug testing is.
To keep employees safe
In job settings that involve the operation of machinery, it’s crucial that every employee remains cognizant and focused. If an employee who’s operating equipment is impaired, they could cause injury to their fellow employees or themselves. Even employees who don’t directly work with heavy machinery can cause issues if they’re impaired by wandering into dangerous areas, distracting operators, and failing to follow safety precautions. In workplaces where machinery is used, companies must be certain their workers are not using illicit substances.
It saves employers money
Employers that offer health insurance plans to their employees can save a lot of money on insurance premiums if they drug test their employees. Business owners collectively lose billions of dollars each year because of employee drug use. Drug use can lead to poor health and more serious conditions, which are costly to insurance companies. It can also lead to more on-the-job injuries and drug-related illnesses. By using drug tests, business owners can rest assured that their employees are healthier and that their company is more profitable.
Productivity, performance, and profits
Employees who use illicit drugs are less likely to be productive and exhibit good job performance. Many employers test their employees for illicit drug usage to ensure their employees aren’t impairing their own ability to be productive and perform as expected. On-task, productive employees are the key to maintaining and increasing overall business profits. A business has to maintain profitability to keep their staff employed, and drug testing is one way to ensure employees can perform to the best of their abilities.
If you’re considering drug testing your employees, check out American Screening Corp urine drug test cups. Our testing kits test for up to 13 different substances.