Drug-Free Workplace (DFW) is perhaps the most effective anti-drug program in existence simply because drugs cost money and drug users are almost always employed, and this program cuts drug use off at the user end.

It is also helpful because drug addiction is a disease involving denial. However, when most people are given the choice between drug use and their income, they choose to keep their job.

Many states have passed laws allowing companies to make their workplaces safe from employees who may have a drug or alcohol problem. The law allows the company to urine test each employee for drug or alcohol use, including pre-hire tests, post accident tests, random tests, and tests for suspicion and after treatment. The primary drugs tested for are marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, methamphetamines, opiates, phencyclidine and alcohol.

For example, the state of Georgia has a drug-free workplace policy that requires companies to provide testing and training. To enroll in the Georgia Drug-Free Workplace, go to http://secure.sbwcdfwp.org/guidelines.php. The training consists of four hours of training for supervisors and two hours of training for employees the first year. Thereafter it is only two hours for supervisors and one hour per year for employees. An integral part of the policy is also having counseling available to employees, often though an Employee Assistance Program. When a company meets these and other requirements, it is entitled to a 7.5 percent discount off its workers' compensation insurance premium.

After the first year, an approved company may replace employee training with employee education, which may include having employees read a monthly article on alcohol or drugs.  If you would like more information about these important articles and the latest information on this important program contact the Council on Alcohol and Drugs at 404-233-2277 or go to The Council on Alcohol and Drugs - Corporate Donations.  Also, if you are an existing client of EAP Works and would like more information please contact us at 770-449-1111. 

Employee Education and Supervisor Training Program Completion Form

ADA & Rehabilitation Act
Commonly-asked Questions About Drug Testing and the ADA

Here are a few helpful links:

http://hollywoodpolice.org/special_units/pic79_11.htm
The Effects of Drugs and Prostitution

http://www.drugfreeworkplace.com
Resources for Professionals

http://www.nida.nih.gov
Resources and Publications including Common Drugs Abused

http://www.health.org
Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information

http://www.livedrugfree.org
Drug Free Workplace Information

application-for-certification.doc
Application for certification of Drug-Free Workplace

EAP Works provides counseling, assessments, referrals, treatment follow-up, supervisor consultation, and employee and supervisor training. Drug-Free Workplace training programs are available. For more information, send us an e-mail.