Occasionally, our clients ask if a positive drug test results in trouble with the law. No, we don’t call the police, but that doesn’t mean all is well. Sometimes an individual tests positive for cocaine or some other illegal drug. Are we obligated to turn the person in? Thankfully, no. We’re not trained in law enforcement and it’s not our intent to police drug use.
For InOut Labs, it’s not really about morals or even personal choices.
For us, drug and alcohol testing is primarily for businesses. That’s not to say we aren’t concerned about teenage drug and alcohol abuse—or other age groups. As a parent of three teenagers I never stop worrying for a second.
Why Do Companies Conduct Drug Testing?
Some companies drug test because they have to. Take companies that are regulated by the U.S. Department of Transportation. These firms employ commercial truck drivers, a group that, according to a new study reported by Reuters Health, is known for its “use of legal and illegal ‘psychoactive’ substances like alcohol, marijuana, amphetamines and cocaine.”
The Role of Drug Testing in Workplace Safety
Other organizations choose to test for drugs and alcohol as part of their workplace safety policies. Some firms worry about accidents, injuries, and the costly workers’ compensation claims that follow. Indeed, many insurers reward companies that implement regular drug testing programs with lower premiums, reducing overall business expenses. In some cases, workers who cannot perform their duties effectively because they are in a haze or preoccupied with finding their next high pose a tremendous liability to their employer and coworkers. Their impaired judgment and slow reaction times increase the risk of workplace accidents, putting everyone in danger.
Many companies are also deeply concerned about the impact of medical marijuana, which is now legal in Illinois and several other states. Employers are, understandably, confused about how it might affect workplace policies, job performance, and safety standards. They must carefully navigate the legal landscape while maintaining a drug-free environment.
So no, we don’t call the cops—that’s not our job. But we will do everything we can to help companies establish and maintain a workplace that is safe, productive, and free from unnecessary risks. A strong drug testing program not only protects employees but also ensures a safer environment for customers and the community at large.
