The direct and indirect costs associated with employees’ use of drugs, including opiates, are alarming. According to the Ohio Chamber of Commerce, impaired workers are:

• 33-50 percent less productive
• Tardy three times as often
• More likely to steal from the company
• Prone to utilize 300-400 percent more medical benefits
• Known to file five times more workers’ compensation claim

Additionally, workers’ compensation claims where opiates are prescribed are four times more costly than those using other means of pain relief. And 33 percent of the opiate painkiller prescriptions funded by employer plans are being abused.

To prevent opiate use at work, and to avoid the costs associated with it, employers should develop and enforce a comprehensive Drug-Free Workplace Program. 

The elements of a Drug-Free Workplace Program include policies and procedures, employee education, supervisor training, drug and alcohol testing, and employee assistance. The program should also provide notice to employees about the workplace rules, testing procedures and consequences, and instructions on how to access help with any questions concerning the safe use of prescription opiates. 

 Another important reminder for employers is that the Americans with Disabilities Act requires employers to reasonably accommodate employees who are no longer abusing opiates and are currently in or have completed a treatment program, regardless of whether or not a Drug-Free Workplace Program has been implemented. This entails costs as well. An employee may leave for an extended time to treat an opiate addiction. During this time, the employer may see an increase in overtime for other employees or temporary workers may be needed. 

Any Drug-Free Workplace Program should be reviewed to ensure it complies with state and federal law.