Workplace substance abuse impairment: the occupational health care provider's role

Substance abuse continues to impact the workplace. Impaired employees impact the safety of themselves, fellow employees, the public, and the physical plant. Occupational and environmental health care providers must be familiar with the seven psychoactive drug categories. In addition, they must consider other causes for behavior, such as medical, psychological, toxicological, or strictly performance issues. A standardized process should be developed and used when providing work fitness impairment evaluations.