Evaluating Drug and Alcohol Policies: Are They Up to Date with Current Standards?

In an era marked by rapid societal changes and evolving public health challenges, the evaluation of drug and alcohol policies is more critical than ever. These policies, which govern the use, regulation, and treatment of substance-related issues, must not only reflect contemporary standards but also address the complexities of addiction, mental health, and social justice. As new research sheds light on the effectiveness of various approaches, including harm reduction, prevention strategies, and rehabilitation, it becomes imperative to assess whether existing policies are aligned with best practices and current scientific understanding. The landscape surrounding drug and alcohol use is increasingly influenced by factors such as rising addiction rates, shifts in public perception, and the impact of emerging substances.

This article aims to critically analyze existing drug and alcohol policies, examining their relevance, effectiveness, and adaptability in light of modern challenges. By exploring the gaps between policy and practice, we seek to highlight areas needing reform and propose recommendations for more effective and inclusive frameworks. Through this evaluation, policymakers, stakeholders, and the public can better understand the urgent need for policies that are not only current but also equitable and responsive to the needs of all communities.

Reassessing Workplace Drug and Alcohol Policies in Light of Legal Changes

During a recent family trip to Florida, the prevalence of establishments promoting medical marijuana was striking. This experience underscored the urgent need for organizations to reassess their policies regarding the use of medical and recreational marijuana in light of evolving legislation (see Figure 1).

Figure 1: Marijuana Legalization Across the United States

With the legalization of both recreational and medical marijuana in numerous states, it is imperative for workplaces to examine their health and safety, as well as human resources policies associated with substance use. Organizations that lack a formal policy should prioritize the development of one.

The Importance of a Comprehensive Drug and Alcohol Policy

Consider the implications in a safety-sensitive role, such as one handling live electrical lines, when a colleague arrives at work exhibiting signs of intoxication. Or imagine being a supervisor who receives a call from an employee stating they cannot report for duty due to a suspended driver’s license. Such scenarios raise critical questions: What protocols should employers, supervisors, and coworkers follow when confronting a situation where an employee may be under the influence? These issues are not only sensitive but also impact a significant portion of the workforce.

Key Statistics on Substance Use

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the rise in illegal and illicit drug use poses an increasing threat to workplace safety. SAMHSA’s annual National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) serves as a vital resource for understanding substance use trends among individuals aged 12 and older. The 2022 NSDUH findings reveal several critical insights:

Alcohol Use:

1. Out of 137.4 million current alcohol users, 61.2 million (44.5%) engaged in binge drinking in the past month, with the highest rates among young adults aged 18 to 25 (29.5%).

2. Among individuals aged 12 to 20, 15.1% reported alcohol use in the past month, with 8.2% engaging in binge drinking.
   

Illicit Drug Use:

1. Marijuana remains the most prevalent illicit substance, with 22.0% of individuals aged 12 or older using it in the past year, particularly among young adults (38.2%).

2. Approximately 3.2% of the population misused opioids in the past year, with a significant number misusing prescription pain relievers.
   

Fentanyl Misuse:

1. An estimated 991,000 individuals misused prescription fentanyl or illegally made fentanyl in the past year, highlighting the pervasive nature of this issue.
   

Substance Use Disorders:

1. In the past year, 48.7 million people had a substance use disorder (SUD), with a notable prevalence among young adults aged 18 to 25 (27.8%).
   

A Safety Concern

Employees impaired by substances can pose severe risks to themselves and others, potentially resulting in injuries or damage to equipment. Establishing a robust workplace drug and alcohol policy, complemented by effective testing procedures, is crucial, especially in environments characterized by safety-sensitive roles. SAMHSA offers resources to assist organizations in developing these policies. Once an effective program is in place, it is essential to communicate it clearly to all employees, potentially through a partnership with a third-party firm for random testing and analysis. This can also mitigate potential legal repercussions associated with any employment terminations resulting from positive test results.

Managers overseeing these programs should undergo specialized training to handle various aspects, including reasonable suspicion protocols and post-accident testing procedures. Additionally, employees need to be reminded of the effects that certain prescription and over-the-counter medications can have on their performance. It is advisable for companies to designate a representative responsible for maintaining drug testing records, ensuring confidentiality, and serving as a resource for inquiries related to substance use.

Conclusion: The Balance of Workplace Fitness and the Aftermath of Substance Use

Research indicates that the repercussions of alcohol and drug use can extend beyond the workplace. Incidents frequently occur due to hangovers the following day, as residual impairment can significantly increase the risk of accidents, particularly in safety-sensitive positions. Studies have established a correlation between the frequency of hangovers and various workplace disruptions, including absenteeism and decreased productivity.

Illegal drugs and alcohol abuse should be prohibited. The influence of drugs and influence of alcohol will surely have a drastic effect. Even there are prescription drugs, current employees should always take into consideration other medical treatment other than prescription medications. Drug abuse and alcohol addiction is hard to overcome so it will also be better if your company offers alcohol testing program and random drug testing for an alcohol and drug-free workplace.

One pertinent study highlighted that pilots exhibited signs of impairment even 14 hours after achieving a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.10%, illustrating the lingering effects of substance use on job performance and attendance

It is essential for every employee to recognize their responsibility for the safety of themselves and their colleagues. This includes encouraging those struggling with substance abuse to seek help through employee assistance programs. If an individual’s behavior endangers themselves or others, there is a duty to report the situation to a supervisor.

In conclusion, as the landscape of substance use evolves alongside legislative changes, workplace policies must adapt to uphold safety while balancing the interests of privacy and responsibility.

READI COLLECT: Your Partner for Mobile Drug/Onsite Testing, Post-Accident Drug and Alcohol Testing

Mobile and Onsite drug tests can increase workplace safety while protecting you against liability and higher insurance costs.

Readi Collect App, is the Fastest and Most Reliable Onsite Drug and Alcohol Test Collections. They use a patented technology to connect your employees to a nationwide network of professional collectors with our mobile app. Making this the best way to meet impossible deadlines for critical testing like DOT post-accident

If you are required to comply with Department of Transportation regulations, this app offers unprecedented collector response time and real-time reporting, making it easier than ever for employers to conduct post-accident testing within the DOT regulation timelines.

If you are interested to know more about Readi Collect, reach out to them here.