Substance abuse in the workplace: epidemiology, effects, and industry response

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's National Household Survey on Drug Abuse (NHSDA) reveals self-reported information on illicit drug and alcohol use among full-time, part-time, and unemployed U.S. workers, including information on workplace policies, workers' health, productivity, absenteeism, job turnover rates, accidents, and injuries. Selected statistics from 1985, 1993, and 1999 NHSDAs are reviewed in this chapter, with focus on the effectiveness and outcomes of a comprehensive Drug-Free Workplace Program, including industry and employee response and the effects of a drug testing program.