Identifying and responding to drug abuse in the workplace: an overview

A realistic program for managing drug abuse in the workplace requires a clear understanding of the nature and effects of both licit and illicit drugs, as well as a knowledge of reliable methods for identifying and responding to both industry and individual needs. This article reviews the nature and effects of psychoactive drugs and discusses the medical steps to be taken when they are being abused. In addition, an overview of the means for identifying workplace drug abusers is presented. Testing methods and procedures are described, and such problems as false-positive and false-negative test results are clarified. The formation of corporate drug abuse policies is discussed and a continuum of industry interaction with health and drug abuse treatment professionals is presented. The roles of industry medical review officers, employee assistance programs, and other pertinent groups and individuals are also discussed.