Making a Drug Free Workplace Program Work

Drug abuse. The news is loaded with it. You cannot pick up a paper or catch the news on-line or on television without seeing the sad consequences of this growing local problem. Most of the names and faces of the accused you probably don't know, but there is one fact that should get the attention of any business owner: Many of these unfortunate people have jobs - they actually work someplace. Odds are that sooner or later that someplace will be your company. And what will this drug or alcohol impaired individual do for your business? Meet the public? Run dangerous equipment? Drive company vehicles? Work on an assembly line? Sobering thoughts all. So maybe the idea of a drug free workplace program may sound better and better, but like all new programs, where do you start?

Enter the Third Party Administrator (TPA for those who like alphabet soup titles). Full scale TPA services assist in setting up the program, running the program and tending to necessary paper work and record keeping. In the initial set-up, the TPA should provide a model program policy and train supervisors to recognize and appropriately deal with individuals who may be impaired by drugs and/or alcohol. The TPA will draw names for the random part of the testing program as well as provide the actual testing for drugs and alcohol. As an essential part of the program, a physician called a Medical Review Officer (MRO) will review test results to determine validity and review abnormal results with the tested individual. The TPA will also file semi-annual reports and provide assistance with DOT audits that involve testing under DOT regulations. The final part of the program involves providing Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) services. The.SAP basically monitors and counsels individuals who have tested positive, but wish to undergo rehabilitation in order to maintain employment.

If a drug free work place is an idea that you would like to further explore, Western Maryland Health System's Occupational Health TPA Program can provide your business with the full range of services. Feel free to contact Gary Kamauf, Occupational Health Coordinator, at The Wellness Center at 301-759-8395 or e-mail him at gkamauf@wmhs.com for further information.