While alcohol and drug abuse rates tend to vary over time, surveys consistently find at least 5 to 10 percent of workers admit to illegal drug use; the actual percentage is probably even higher. Employee substance abuse can have many harmful effects on an organization, including:

• higher absenteeism,

• increased accidents and injuries,

• higher medical costs, and

• lower productivity and quality.

Research by the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has found that workers with the highest rates of abuse are concentrated in workplaces that have the fewest policies, informational resources, and employee assistance programs to address substance abuse. Workers in businesses with strong substance abuse programs report the lowest rates of drug use.

Management 2000, a PEO with offices in Indiana and Ohio, has knowledgeable HR professionals who provide the human resources help employers need to develop effective HR procedures and policies. Management 2000’s HR Department also provides HR support in the form of training to managers and employees to ensure understanding of these policies.