Unintentional poisonings and drug misuse and abuse have a tremendous impact on employees and employers, in homes and communities. Unintentional poisonings can occur from taking prescription and over-the-counter medications and supplements.
In the workplace, drug misuse and abuse can result in higher absenteeism, lost wages, decreased productivity, increased risk of unintentional injury, increased health care costs and reduced profits in the workplace.
- Drug and alcohol problems cost the U.S. about $276 billion each year.
- According to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 60% of adults with substance abuse problems are employed full-time.
- In 2000, the total lifetime costs associated with poisoning was close to $26 billion.
- Lost productivity accounted for 91% of these total lifetime costs.
Employers can play a pivotal role in reducing injury, illness and health costs associated with drug misuse and abuse. Establishing a drug-free workplace program can serve as the framework to improve worker safety and health. The program can include, but is not limited to:
- a company-wide policy
- supervisor training
- education and
- employee assistance
When implementing a workplace program, consider the range of factors involved with prescription and drug problems; personal, environmental, social factors. Addressing these factors will provide employees support, encourage participation, promote safety and health and benefit the bottom line.