IAEE Adopts Drug-Free Policy, Begins Random Testing of Employees
The International Association of Exhibitions and Events, whose members organize more than 20,000 exhibitions and buyer-seller events around the world, announced a new policy statement focusing on a drug-free workplace for the exhibitions and events industry. The IAEE board of directors said it bases the policy on the fact that those who use illicit drugs and abuse alcohol create substantially higher costs for employers, exacerbate the nation's healthcare cost crisis, and are ill-suited to properly serve the industry's customers while under the influence.
"IAEE feels it is important to shine a spotlight on this important issue, and raise the awareness of how a drug-free workplace will benefit exhibitors, facilities, contractors and show organizers alike," said 2008 IAEE Chairman Randy Bauler, CEM. "We hope the industry will join us in this effort."
As a first step, the IAEE board ordered the adoption of random drug testing for all IAEE employees effective Jan. 1, 2008. The board said it commits itself and the association to the goal of achieving a drug-free workplace for all exhibitions and events, and plans to implement the following:
- Promote a "Right of Entry" concept provision to all major venues that is coupled with random drug testing.
- Urge all IAEE members to support the initiative by adopting random drug testing at their workplaces.
- Inform members of the consequences and scope of the epidemic using all IAEE education and information channels.
- Urge all organizations that are active in the exhibitions and events industry to support IAEE's efforts with their own, and to join with IAEE in creating the Alliance for a Drug Free Workplace for all exhibitions and events.
"By taking these initial steps, we hope to make a positive difference for those who are organizing exhibitions and events in the U.S. and avoid the undeniable issues associated with illicit drug use and alcohol abuse in the workplace," said IAEE President Steven Hacker, CAE. To view the complete policy statement, visit http://www.iaee.com/information__resources/advocacy.