Legal and Illegal Drug Testing

Employers should approach drug testing with caution because it is a tricky issue. While drug tests are valuable tools in the prevention of drug-related incidents and accidents in the workplace, these are also highly intrusive for employees.

Many employers have been sued in courts by their employees because the drug tests conducted were illegal, such as when their private rights have been violated or when the state’s laws have not been complied with to satisfactory levels. With this in mind, the importance of seeking legal advice as well as seeking the assistance of a qualified drug testing facility cannot be overemphasized.

If you are looking for a facility that conducts state-approved drug testing procedures, your best bet is Healthpointe. We have clinics throughout Southern California, such as our one at Perris, which is accessible to employers from the Nuevo, Sun City, Canyon Lake, Homeland, Romoland, and Lakeview areas.

You will be guided about the difference between legal and illegal drug use as well as the best steps to handle drug issues among employees.

Many employees may likely be on prescription or over-the-counter drugs with side effects that mimic illegal drug use. Sleeping aids, painkillers, and cold medicine are just a few examples of legal drugs that can cause side effects, such as drowsiness as well as impaired abilities and judgment. You have to be careful about alleging illegal drug use, more so asking them to undergo drug testing, since you may run afoul of the law.

Legal and human resource experts generally agree that for as long as the legal drugs do not adversely affect the employee’s job performance, then this is none of your business. But things will get trickier when the concerned employee’s job is affected, such as when his impaired judgment increases the risk for accidents at the workplace. You should ask for legal advice in this case before taking any action.

The use of illegal drugs and their possession at work is a different matter. In this case, the disability rights law will not limit your options in dealing with the illegal drug issue.

You can apply the rules and regulations in your company’s standard disciplinary policy. You may issue a written reprimand for a first offense, for example, or suspend the employee in case he endangers the lives of others. You may also ask the concerned employee to undergo a treatment program before reporting for work.

Come to any of our clinics, such as the one in Temecula, which is Murrieta, Fallbrook, Wildomar, Canyon Lake, and Sun City, for more information about drug testing.

About Healthpointe:

Healthpointe is a leading multidisciplinary healthcare organization offering a full range of medical services in practice locations throughout Southern California (Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Bernardino County, and Riverside County). Healthpointe has locations situated in over 10 cities in Southern California including Temecula, which is conveniently located by Murrieta, Fallbrook, Wildomar, Canyon Lake, and Sun City.. As a highly regarded musculoskeletal group, we have a personal investment in the highest level of service, and we are proud of our record of excellence over the last four decades with private patients, injured workers, urgent care, personal injuries, and professional and non-professional athletes. Leading our organization is a dynamic team of healthcare professionals who continually strive to be at the forefront of medical innovation and healthcare service delivery. For more information, a complete list of services, and Healthpointe locations, visit Healthpointe.net.