Workplace Drug Screening

The first 200 words of this essay...

Running head: THE LEGAL AND ETHICAL ISSUES OF

Workplace Drug Screening

Chemical Dependency in the Workplace

PSY/425

Drug use and abuse is on the rise with so many variations of drugs being readily available. Employers are realizing the importance and cost savings of drug testing. Studies show that alcohol and drug abuse cost the nation hundreds of billions of dollars each year. This cost comes in the form of reduced productivity, increased health costs, increased insurance costs, and crime.

Most legal issues come from claims of invasion of privacy or the lack of probable cause as guaranteed by the 4th Amendment of the Constitution. When an employee is required to submit to a drug test, they feel their privacy is being invaded claiming what they do outside of work has nothing to do with work. The results of the test must be kept confidential, otherwise legal actions could result claiming an invasion of the employee's privacy. The employer must clearly to state the policy of drug testing. The policy should be reviewed and agreed upon by both the company and labor representatives. A drug testing policy that is effective will help identify