DOL Preps for 2009 Drug-Free Work Week
Resources on the agency's Web site point out the productivity, safety, and economic benefits of drug-free workplace programs.
Oct. 19-25 is 2009 Drug-Free Work Week, and the U.S. Department of Labor already has posted a variety of resources for employers, workers, associations, unions, neighborhood groups, and community coalitions to take part.
Held annually, the week highlights the productivity, safety, and economic benefits of drug-free workplace programs. Employers and others should encourage people with alcohol and drug problems to seek help, because "according to recent research, it's a message that many workers need to hear," DOL's resources page notes. These statistics are posted there:
- 75 percent of the nation's current illegal drug users are employed, and 3.1 percent say they have used illegal drugs before or during work hours.
- 79 percent of the nation's heavy alcohol users are employed, and 7.1 percent say they have consumed alcohol during the workday.
Tools available at the site are a Drug-Free Work Week Tool Box and links to ideas for various types of organizations.