Description:
Testing for substance abuse has become a hot political topic. What used to be a straight-forward program has become confusing and full of litigation potential. Employers who want to maintain a safe workplace and conduct substance abuse testing now have more concerns about lawsuits or discrimination complaints because of poorly written laws and fear of “retaliation” investigations. Regardless of the current confusion on what is or is not allowed, OSHA has provided a level of guidance that, as long as it is consistently applied, gives employers the right to test for substance abuse after an incident or injury occurs.
Course Objectives:
- Reviewing the “fear” created around testing and overcoming that fear.
- Understanding OSHA’s guidance on substance abuse testing
- Knowing when it is OK to test and the circumstances surrounding the incident.
- Testing “for cause” – what does that mean?
- How to have an effective team approach with Safety, HR, and front-line managers
Why Should You Attend:
Employers are facing more hurdles and legal threats regarding substance abuse testing than ever before. Knowing OSHA’s position and understanding OSHA’s guidance is critical for maintaining a testing program that is consistent and effective with reduced risk of lawsuits or labor complaints.
Course Outline:
- Substance Abuse Testing: When and why an employer should do it
- OSHA’s guidance on substance abuse testing that protects employees and employers
- What changed and what did not change related to post-incident testing
- Having an effective cross-functional team of managers, supervisors, HR, and Safety
- At the end of the day, what does OSHA’s guidance mean for substance abuse testing programs?
