KEY TAKEAWAYS: Drug positivity rates among nonsafety-sensitive U.S. workers have reached 4.6%, the highest level since 2001, according to data cited by LWCC. Employees with substance use disorders are five times more likely to file workers’ compensation claims, potentially increasing employe r costs. Drug-free workplace policies can help businesses reduce operational expenses, improve workplace safety and support employee health and productivity. LWCC recommends written policies, employee education, supervisor training, appropriate drug testing and confidential assistance programs to help businesses establish drug-free workplaces.   When employees struggle with substance abuse, there is a larger impact on the entire work force. And according to the National Drug Free Workplace Alliance and Quest Diagnostics, an increasing number of employees are testing positive for drug use. Among the non-safety sensitive workforce in the U.S., 4.6% are currently testing positive for substances, the highest level since 2001. These numbers represent real costs and challenges in the workplace for employers. According to the National Drug Free Workplace Alliance, abuse of tobacco, alcohol and illicit drugs adds up to “more than $700 billion annually in costs related to crime, lost work productivity and health care.” Louisiana’s largest workers’ compensation carrier, LWCC, partners with businesses across the state to help them create safer workplaces, including support for establishing drug-free workplace policies. To mark National Drug Free Workplace Alliance’s Drug Free Work Week October 12 – 16, LWCC is providing practical steps and resources to build a drugfree workplace. Employers can reduce costs with a drug-free workplace. Employees with substance use disorders are five times more likely to file a workers’ compensation claim, which can lead to higher premiums and significant costs for employers. Extensive medical expenses often stem from substance misuse in the workplace. In fact, the U.S. Department of Labor estimates that substance use in the workplace costs employers roughly $81 billion annually in added healthcare expenses, lost productivity and workplace incidents. On average, employees with substance use disorders miss nearly five weeks of work each year – two more weeks than their peers, according to The National Safety Council. Continuous lost time, money, decreased productivity and strain on employers and coworkers can be significantly helped by creating a drug free workplace. What are the benefits of a drug-free work culture? A well-implemented drug-free policy builds a healthier, stronger and more productive workplace. Benefits include: Lower operational costs Protection of employees and customers Improved services and customer satisfaction Increased profits Better employee health and wellbeing How can companies start building a drug-free workplace? Creating a drug-free environment starts with leadership and a shared commitment to safety. Here are practical steps to guide the process: Acknowledge the impact: Understand the state of drug use in your workplace and how substance abuse may be affecting your business. Develop a clear policy: Tailor a plan that fits into your organization. Communicate consistently: Provide written policies to employees, ensure they understand them and require acknowledgment. Implement testing: Include post-accident testing within 24 hours, along with other appropriate testing protocols. Provide support: Invest in an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) so employees know they have resources and can seek help confidentially. Train supervisors: Equip leaders with tools to identify issues and support employees when necessary. Educate employees: Keep the workforce informed about policy changes and how they are supported. Where can Louisiana companies go for more help? LWCC’s mission is to help Louisiana thrive, and safe, drug-free work environments are critical to that goal. To find a sample drug-free policy and additional free resources, visit LWCC’s website. Damian Simoneaux serves as safety services manager at the Louisiana Workers’ Compensation Corporation. ...read more read less