by: Damian Sofsian

Employers have many reasons for requiring pre-employment drug
testing. One of the most obvious reasons is that of safety. Those
handling dangerous equipment or those who drive commercial vehicles
have a greater chance of accidents or inflicting injury upon
themselves or others if they are under the influence. Companies have
a moral and legal obligation to ensure that their employees adhere
to Federal work-safety guidelines, and pre-employment drug
screenings can be an effective tool.

Insurance and health-related absences provide two more reasons for
implementing pre-employment drug testing. More than 175 million
Americans are enrolled in workplace group health insurance; with an
average of a 30% increase in premiums in the last three years,
pre-employment drug testing may be one way to cut down on costs.
Studies have linked short- and long-term health problems with drug
abuse. Drug abusers are more likely to develop respiratory problems
and are generally more susceptible to illness. Employers often view
drug abusers as irresponsible since many absences can be attributed
to the after-effects of drug usage. Employee absences cost employers
millions of dollars every year, and many human resource experts
suggest that pre-employment drug testing can reduce these costs.

However, some groups argue that pre-employment drug testing is not
an accurate way to detect the use of drugs while at work. Many
drugs, such as marijuana, will remain detectable for up to three
weeks after usage. Other drugs, such as cocaine, may only be present
for a few days after consumption. It is often a difficult call for
an employer to make but most simply make their decisions cautiously.
They often view it as better to not hire someone who occasionally
uses drugs than to take the risk of the person using before or
during working hours.

According to the Small Business Administration, companies lose an
average of $7,000 per drug-using employee per year. This figure is
often enough to convince an employer to implement a standard of
pre-employment drug testing. In any given year, it is estimated that
nearly 50 million American workers are required to have a drug
screening. Advances in medical testing have made it quick, easy and
relatively inexpensive for employers who wish to use this screening
process. Many employers view this is as a simple means of ensuring
the well being of both their company and their customers.

About the author:
Drug Testing Info provides detailed information about employee,
random, high school, hair, and urine drug testing and drug testing
kits. Drug Testing Info is the sister site of Prescription Drugs
Addiction Web.