Substance Abuse in the Workplace Key Terms

Knowing drug terminology and treatment facilities is critical for an organization's drug-free work policy

By Renee Baumgardner

Substance abuse in the workplace — whether alcohol or drugs such as methamphetamines and hallucinogens — is a sensitive situation that managers must sometimes address with their employees through an intervention. Interventions can be an emotional situation for manager and employee alike, but if the focus is on employee performance rather than substance abuse, the situation may be less hostile. It is also important for managers and employees to be aware of regulations pertaining to drug-free workplaces, in addition to resources available to them should they need treatment.

Methamphetamines

Methamphetamines, also known as speed, crystal meth or ice, are a form of amphetamine that affects the body by speeding up the central nervous system. Methamphetamines may be snorted, smoked or injected and the simplicity (and low cost) of manufacturing this drug has led to its use among various demographics of people. After taking methamphetamines, people generally feel energized, while side effects include chest pain, nausea, paranoia and aggressive behavior.
Try: Visit the Office of National Drug Control Policy for more information on methamphetamines.

Hallucinogens

Hallucinogens, which include LSD, PCP and ecstasy, are psychedelic drugs that affect a person's senses. When taking hallucinogens, depending on the drug and individual, one may experience a sense of elation, terror or hallucinations.
Try: Contact the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration for more information on hallucinogens.

Intervention

When an employee seems to have a substance abuse problem, a manager may hold an intervention, which is where the manager, along with other professionals, confronts the employee about the problem. When conducting an intervention with an employee, one should focus on job performance, have documentation to support the supervisor's claims, discuss the organization's drug-free workplace policy and any repercussions if performance does not improve to meet standards. Supervisors should also support the individual by offering assistance to improve work performance, as well as resources one may use to resolve personal issues.
Try: Refer to the U.S. Department of Labor for techniques on conducting a workplace intervention.

Department of Transportation regulations

The Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act of 1991 requires transportation industry employers to have drug and alcohol testing as part of their drug-free workplace program. This act applies to individuals possessing a commercial driver's license and who operate a commercial vehicle as defined by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). In addition to the drug and alcohol testing, employers must provide employees a policy statement that lists Department of Transportation elements, annual supervisor training on the effects of drug and alcohol, and drug and alcohol education certification to employees.
Try: Refer to the Department of Transportation Drug-Free Workplace Regulations for more information.

Substance Abuse and Drug-Free Workplace Act

The Substance Abuse and Drug-Free Workplace Act objective is to prevent and end the use of drugs and alcohol through education, enforcement and treatment. Employers must inform employees of the organization's drug-testing and alcohol-abuse policies, penalties for violation, definition of zero tolerance and resources that can help people with their substance abuse, such as treatment facilities or support groups. Management should also receive training on intervention techniques and legal issues surrounding drug testing and reporting.
Try: Visit Workplace Answers for training pertaining to the Substance Abuse and Drug-Free Workplace Act.

Narconon

Narconon is a nonprofit drug rehabilitation and prevention center with locations worldwide, whose mission is to eradicate substance abuse through its prevention, education and rehabilitation efforts.
Try: Visit Narconon International to obtain more information on its drug prevention, education and rehabilitation programs.