Employer Drug & Alcohol Policy
A written workplace policy defining prohibited substance use, testing procedures, consequences for violations, and employee assistance resources.
Key Facts
- Written policy is the foundation of any workplace drug testing program
- Must define prohibited conduct, testing circumstances, and consequences
- Some states require specific content and distribution methods
- Should address prescription medication, CBD products, and marijuana
- Reviewed annually and after any regulatory or legal changes
An employer drug and alcohol policy is a written document that establishes the organization's position on substance use and outlines the drug and alcohol testing program. A comprehensive policy includes: purpose statement and scope, definitions of prohibited conduct, substances covered, testing circumstances (pre-employment, random, reasonable suspicion, post-accident, return-to-duty, follow-up), specimen types and procedures, consequences for positive results and refusals, employee assistance program (EAP) information, prescription medication and CBD/marijuana guidance, confidentiality protections, and employee acknowledgment requirements. For DOT-regulated employers, the policy must meet 49 CFR Part 382 requirements. State laws may dictate additional policy content, distribution methods, and notice requirements.
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