Substance Abuse In The Workplace
Running Head: SUBSTANCE ABUSE
Substance Abuse in the Workplace
Beth Gibbons
Table of Contents
Abstract 3
Historical Documentation of Drug Use 4
Impact of Substance Abuse in the Work Place 12
Today’s Commonly Abused Substances 13
How to Recognize a Substance Abuser 14
Substance Abuse and Sports 15
Safety in the Workplace 20
What is the Cost of Substance Abuse 21
Prevention 24
Drug Testing 26
Where to Get Help 36
Appendix 1 39
Appendix 2 40
Appendix 3 41
Appendix 4 42
References 44
Abstract
Substance abuse is an ever increasing issue in today’s workplace. Drugs and alcohol are nearly as old as the human race yet they pose a much larger hurdle for employers than ever before. Substance abuse can be a result of both legal and/or illegal drug use. Some legal forms are prescription medications, alcohol, or even tobacco. The lists of illegal drugs are myriad and ever growing as the human race searches for the next new high. Substance abuse and its impact on businesses is a growing problem in the United States. Businesses are struggling with the legalities of how best to control this problem without infringing on their employees rights while protecting themselves from potentially crippling lawsuits.
Substance Abuse in the Workplace
Historical Documentation of Drug Use
The word drug has very negative connotations in our society yet the meaning found in the dictionary defines it as a substance used to treat, cure, prevent or cure a disease or something designed to boost a person’s physical or mental health. This definition does not hint at the often derogatory image associated with the word. Due largely to the abuse of substances in our society if you are “taking a drug” it is assumed to be illicit. Drug use has been a part of our lives for as long as people can remember and their use is documented throughout history. (Merriam-Webster Editorial Staff, 2003)
Throughout the ages people have used various substances to bring them...
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