What is it?
A Substance Abuse Policy Form is a document that outlines a company's policy regarding the use of drugs and alcohol by employees. It typically includes information such as the company's stance on substance abuse, the consequences for violating the policy, the procedures for drug testing, and any available resources for employees who may be struggling with substance abuse.
When To Use?
A Substance Abuse Policy form should be used:
- During the onboarding process for new employees: To ensure that all employees are aware of the company's stance on substance abuse and understand the consequences of violating the policy.
- When updating or revising the company's substance abuse policy: To keep employees informed of any changes to the policy and to ensure that the policy remains up-to-date and effective.
- When addressing employee concerns: To provide employees with a clear understanding of the company's stance on substance abuse and to ensure that all employees feel comfortable speaking up if they are struggling with substance abuse or if they witness a violation of the policy.
- When responding to legal claims or government investigations: To demonstrate the company's compliance with relevant laws and regulations regarding substance abuse in the workplace.
- When implementing or revising an employee assistance program (EAP): To ensure that the EAP is consistent with the company's substance abuse policy and to provide employees with information on how to access the program.
- When making decisions about employee discipline: To ensure that disciplinary actions are consistent with the company's substance abuse policy and that employees who violate the policy are treated fairly and equitably.
What To Include?
It typically includes the following key elements:
- Purpose: A statement indicating the purpose of the policy, such as to ensure a safe and productive workplace, promote health and well-being, and comply with relevant laws and regulations.
- Prohibited Substances: A list of prohibited substances, including drugs, alcohol, and prescription medications, and a description of the consequences of using them in the workplace.
- Testing: A description of the circumstances under which employees may be required to undergo drug and alcohol testing, including pre-employment, random, reasonable suspicion, post-accident, and return-to-duty testing.
- Confidentiality: A statement indicating that any information related to substance abuse will be kept confidential to the extent possible, consistent with applicable laws and regulations.
- Employee Assistance Program: A description of any employee assistance program (EAP) available to employees who are struggling with substance abuse, including information on how to access the program and the services it provides.
- Treatment: A statement indicating the company's commitment to supporting employees who seek help for substance abuse, including a description of the resources and support that may be available.
- Discipline: A description of the disciplinary actions that may be taken against employees who violate the substance abuse policy, including suspension, termination, or referral for treatment.
Here is a Substance Abuse Policy Form Template to get you started!
Substance Abuse Policy Form
[Company Name]
Date: [Insert Date]
Dear [Employee Name],
At [Company Name], we are committed to providing a safe and healthy work environment for all employees. To support this goal, we have implemented a substance abuse policy to address the use, possession, sale, or distribution of illegal drugs or alcohol in the workplace.
Prohibited Conduct:
The use, possession, sale, or distribution of illegal drugs or alcohol while on company property or while performing work-related duties is strictly prohibited.
Drug Testing:
[Company Name] reserves the right to require drug and/or alcohol testing for all employees under the following circumstances:
- Pre-employment
- Random testing
- Reasonable suspicion
- Post-accident
- Return-to-duty
Consequences of Violation:
Violation of this policy will result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.
Assistance:
[Company Name] recognizes that substance abuse is a serious problem that can affect an individual’s health and well-being. We encourage employees to seek assistance for substance abuse through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) or other resources.
Confidentiality:
All information regarding an employee’s substance abuse will be kept confidential to the extent allowed by law.
This policy is subject to change at the discretion of [Company Name]. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask your supervisor.