One out of three owners of small businesses say that workers comp claims costs are challenging their bottom line. Many states offer a mandated workers comp discount for drug-free workplace programs. That alone illustrates their effectiveness.
1) Promote a safety culture — persistently
Constantly messaging about safety promotes a strong safety culture. When interviewing new employees, inform them that the company will conduct pre-hiring drug tests and require random drug testing after employment. The company prioritizes a safe, productive work environment for all employees, and staying vigilant with testing helps reduce workers comp claims.
2) Protect proactively
Create a well-written safety control program and ensure all employees understand and follow it. Hold employees accountable for any rule violations while also rewarding those who consistently follow safety procedures. Conduct regular safety meetings to reinforce the importance of maintaining a safe workplace for everyone. Ensure top management actively endorses and implements the safety program, demonstrating its significance throughout the organization.
3) Document thoroughly
If an employee is injured while working, document and take photographs of the accident and the area affected, and get information from witnesses. Memories are not always reliable.
4) Deal with employees you suspect may be impaired
An employee who is slurring, falling asleep or exhibiting other signs of drug or alcohol use needs to be dealt with immediately and appropriately. An impaired individual could be the source of the next accident. Make sure all supervisors are trained to recognize what they can do and, more importantly, what they are obligated to do.
5) Post-accident testing
When an accident happens, the employer must immediately test the employee for any substances that could have caused or contributed to the incident. In Illinois, the Illinois Workers Comp Act actively supports employers when an impaired worker files a claim.
Furthermore, with more states legalizing marijuana and prescription drug misuse rapidly increasing, employers must stay vigilant. A positive test can provide strong evidence to defend against workers comp claims, ensuring a fair resolution.
6) Be proactive—prevent loss and accidents through testing
Accidents often occur because someone was careless—or distracted. By understanding how drugs and alcohol affect your body, it’s easier to see why accidents happen.
The following are common signs of impairment:
- Diminished concentration
- Delays in decision making
- Erratic cognitive functions
- Confusion
- Anxiety
- Impulsive behavior
- Forgetfulness
- Slow reactions
One proven answer to reducing workers comp nightmares is to test for substance abuse at pre-employment, randomly, for suspicion and post-accident.
Understand that most drugs are detectable in urine for only a few days, so frequency of testing is important.
Test, test, and test again to protect your workers who don’t use — or to prevent you from hiring less productive (or dangerous) people with substance addictions.
Test, test, and test again to protect your company from workers comp costs.
Need help? Contact InOut Labs.
