Drug Tests in the Workplace

Running head: DRUG TESTING IN THE WORKPLACE

Drug Testing in the Workplace: Is it the Solution?

Bobby D. Frazier

July 19, 2009

Abstract

Drug testing in the workplace is a very controversial and highly debated issue in today’s human resource arena. Much of the controversy centers on the legality of the invasion of privacy employees feel. Proponents in favor of drug testing claim employers should follow government policy and help win the war on drugs. Opponents claim that simple drug place testing, normally done during a pre-determined time is simply a “check in the box” and not a true measure of drugs use in the workplace. This paper will review the benefits and risks to employee and employer, best practices and possible alternatives to traditional workplace drug tests.

As drug testing becomes more and more common in today’s workplace, the controversy surrounding the topic continues to grow. This subject of drug testing is one of the most fiercely debated and divided human resource issues facing today’s corporations. Opinions range from complete support to absolute rejection (Jardine-Tweedie & Wright, 1998). Arguments concerning the safety of employees, the public and the environment continue to face off with those who stand beside the need to protect employee privacy. This paper will review the background and implementation of workplace drug testing, benefits and risks, best practices and possible alternatives.

Leading the way to the normalization of workplace drug testing has been the United States government with policy supporting the initiative set in place by the Office of the National Drug Control Policy and the Institute for a Drug-Free Workplace (Sullum 2002). Both organizations claim the responsibility of helping to win the war on drugs belongs to employers and employees (Sullum 2002). In 1986, in support of these initiatives, President Reagan issued an executive...