Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Know the Ethical Issues with Drug Testing at Workplace

Drug testing at workplaces has become common. Pre-employment drug testing, random drug testing, post-accident drug testing are some of the modes of drug screening at workplaces. It is necessary for an organization to evaluate the ethical implications.

Many people feel that drug tests should not be conducted at workplaces. But, some people feel that it is necessary to conduct employment drug testing. However, it is necessary for the employers to ensure productivity and performance of employees. So they prefer to conduct employment drug tests. Drug abused employees lack motivation and job satisfaction. They also are found to be absent for work frequently decreasing their individual as well as the organization productivity. Therefore, employers should educate their employees about the importance and effect of drug abuse at workplace. This would help in improving employee health and safety which automatically creates a safe and discipline work environment.

A company policy should be made to address the issue to employees which does not create any discrimination against employees. The policy should mention the process and rules of drug testing. It is to be ensured that medical treatment and employee counseling are included in the drug free workplace policies. The policy should also mention about strict disciplinary actions that will be taken against drug abused employees. They should be made clear to job applicants at the time of recruitment. Those who are interested with the policy suggestions, should only join the organization.

Rehabilitation of drug addicted employees is the main ethical issue concerned with employment drug testing. It is necessary for employers to handle the sensitive situation very carefully.

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