This topic is particularly interesting because it is a clear and present danger facing many workplaces across the U.S and other parts of the world. Its effect have taken a toll in terms of lost wages, declined production, and cost families across the board. Other effects are pointed out as we go. .
Drug use in the community is inevitable and many of those who use drugs and those who use at a harmful level are employed. The extent of drug use in the community can reflect the extent of drug-use in the workplace. The workplace can be considered a microcosm of the broader community and responses to harmful drug use in the community may prove useful when considering ways of dealing with drug use problems in the workplace. .
Workplace drug use can be defined as the use of any substance by a working individual, either on or off the site that can have potential workplace effects .
The prevalence of drug use in the work place is an important issue for employees and employers. It is a major contributory factor in accidents, absenteeism, health problems, theft, lower productivity and job loss (International Labor Organization, 2000). Workers who are working under the influence of alcohol or other drugs can pose a serious safety risk to themselves and to other employees. The employer has a duty to all employees to provide as far as possible a safe workplace environment.
The purpose of this essay is to describe responses to drug use in the workplace and its relation to the societal response. First, the workplace as a microcosm of society will be clarified. Second, the extent of drug use in the workplace will be examined followed by a description of responses used. The interrelation between workplace and societal responses will then be discussed.
The workplace as a microcosm of society.
The workplace can be considered a microcosm of society where drug issues in the workplace can be seen in a wider social context.