Drugs in the workplace are a serious issue that can have far-reaching consequences for both employers and employees. According to statistics, approximately 70% of the estimated 14.8 million Americans who use illegal drugs are employed, costing American companies $81 billion a year. Additionally, 77% of illicit drug users are currently employed either part-time or full-time and those with substance abuse issues miss 34% more days of work than their healthier colleagues on average. Furthermore, businesses that have instituted drug-free workplace programs have seen a 51% decrease in workplace injury rates while 24% of employees report that their workplaces is affected by prescription drug misuse or abuse.
These facts demonstrate just how pervasive this problem has become and why it's so important for employers to take steps towards creating safe working environments free from drugs and alcohol abuse. In this blog post we will explore some key statistics about Drugs In The Workplace as well as discuss potential solutions for addressing these issues within organizations today.
This statistic is a stark reminder that drug use is not limited to those who are unemployed or out of the workforce. It highlights the fact that drug use is pervasive and can affect anyone, regardless of their employment status. This is an important point to consider when discussing the prevalence of drugs in the workplace, as it emphasizes the need for employers to be proactive in addressing the issue.
Drug abuse and addiction cost American companies $81 billion a year.
This statistic is a stark reminder of the immense financial burden that drug abuse and addiction can place on businesses. It serves as a powerful reminder of the need for employers to be proactive in addressing the issue of drugs in the workplace. By taking steps to prevent and address drug use, companies can help to reduce the financial losses associated with drug abuse and addiction.
Drugs In The Workplace Statistics Overview
77% of illicit drug users are currently employed either part-time or full-time.
This statistic is a powerful reminder that drug use is not limited to certain demographics or lifestyles. It highlights the fact that drug use is pervasive and can affect anyone, regardless of their employment status. This is an important point to consider when discussing the prevalence of drugs in the workplace, as it emphasizes the need for employers to be aware of the potential for drug use among their employees.
Employees who abuse drugs are responsible for 10-20% higher medical claims costs than their non-abusing counterparts.
This statistic is a stark reminder of the financial burden that drug abuse in the workplace can have on employers. It highlights the importance of having a comprehensive drug policy in place to ensure that employees are not engaging in activities that could lead to higher medical costs. This statistic is a powerful reminder that drug abuse in the workplace can have serious financial implications for employers.
Workers with drug or alcohol problems are nearly three times more likely to have injury-related absences.
This statistic is a stark reminder of the potential consequences of drug and alcohol abuse in the workplace. It highlights the fact that not only can substance abuse lead to decreased productivity, but it can also lead to an increased risk of injury-related absences. This is an important statistic to consider when discussing the impact of drugs in the workplace.
The prevalence of past-year marijuana use among full-time employed adults increased from 14.6% (13.3 million) in 2013 to 17.7% (16.8 million) in 2018.
This statistic is a stark reminder of the growing prevalence of marijuana use among full-time employed adults. It highlights the need for employers to be aware of the potential risks associated with drug use in the workplace and to take steps to ensure a safe and productive work environment.
9.5% of American workers typically drink alcohol during the workday.
This statistic is a telling indication of the prevalence of alcohol consumption in the workplace. It highlights the need for employers to be aware of the potential for drug use in the workplace and to take steps to ensure a safe and productive work environment.
Employees with substance abuse issues miss 34% more days of work than their healthier colleagues, increasing up to an average of 49.2 days missed days.
This statistic serves as a stark reminder of the impact that substance abuse can have on workplace attendance. It highlights the fact that employees with substance abuse issues are more likely to miss a significant amount of work, resulting in a decrease in productivity and an increase in costs for the company. This statistic is an important reminder of the need for employers to be aware of the potential risks associated with substance abuse in the workplace and to take steps to address it.
Businesses that have instituted drug-free workplace programs have seen a 51% decrease in workplace injury rates.
This statistic is a powerful testament to the effectiveness of drug-free workplace programs. It demonstrates that by implementing such programs, businesses can significantly reduce the number of workplace injuries, thus improving the safety of their employees. This is an important point to consider when discussing the impact of drugs in the workplace, as it shows that taking proactive steps to address the issue can have a positive effect.
A survey found that 24% of employees report that their workplace is affected by the misuse or abuse of prescription drugs.
This statistic is a stark reminder of the prevalence of prescription drug misuse and abuse in the workplace. It highlights the need for employers to be aware of the potential for drug misuse and abuse in their workplace and to take steps to address it. It also serves as a warning to employees to be mindful of their own prescription drug use and to be aware of the potential consequences of misusing or abusing prescription drugs in the workplace.
About 7.3% of adults employed full-time and 9.1% of those employed part-time currently use illicit drugs.
This statistic serves as a stark reminder of the prevalence of illicit drug use in the workplace. It highlights the need for employers to be aware of the potential for drug use in their workforce, and to take steps to ensure a safe and drug-free workplace.
The construction industry has the highest rate of drug use, with 16.5% of workers reporting past-month illicit drug use.
This statistic is a stark reminder of the prevalence of drug use in the construction industry, and serves as a warning to employers and workers alike of the potential risks associated with drug use in the workplace. It highlights the need for employers to be vigilant in their efforts to prevent and detect drug use in the workplace, and for workers to be aware of the potential consequences of drug use.
Small businesses are particularly affected by drug abuse, with 30% of small business owners identifying addiction as having an impact on their company.
This statistic is a stark reminder of the far-reaching effects of drug abuse, particularly on small businesses. It highlights the fact that addiction can have a devastating impact on a company's bottom line, and that employers must be aware of the risks associated with drug use in the workplace. This statistic is a call to action for employers to take steps to protect their businesses from the damaging effects of drug abuse.
Prescription pain reliever abuse is linked to 16% of Employment Assistance Program referrals.
This statistic serves as a stark reminder of the prevalence of prescription pain reliever abuse in the workplace. It highlights the need for employers to be aware of the potential for drug abuse in their workforce and to take steps to ensure that their employees are not engaging in such activities. It also underscores the importance of providing access to resources such as the Employment Assistance Program, which can help those struggling with addiction to get the help they need.
Workers with substance abuse issues cost employers twice as much in workers' compensation and medical expenses.
This statistic serves as a stark reminder of the financial burden that substance abuse issues can place on employers. It highlights the importance of having a comprehensive drug policy in place to help protect the company from the costly repercussions of drug use in the workplace.
Nearly 1 in 12 American workers have a Substance Use Disorder.
This statistic is a stark reminder of the prevalence of Substance Use Disorders in the workplace. It highlights the need for employers to be aware of the potential for drug use in their workforce and to take steps to ensure a safe and healthy work environment. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of providing resources and support to those struggling with Substance Use Disorders in order to help them maintain their employment and remain productive members of the workforce.
40% of workplace fatalities involve alcohol or drugs.
This statistic is a stark reminder of the dangers of drugs and alcohol in the workplace. It highlights the need for employers to take proactive steps to ensure that their employees are not engaging in activities that could put them or their colleagues at risk. It also serves as a warning to employees to be mindful of the potential consequences of using drugs or alcohol while on the job.
Substance abuse is accountable for up to 40% of industrial fatalities and 47% of injuries.
This statistic is a stark reminder of the devastating effects that substance abuse can have on workplace safety. It highlights the importance of having policies in place to prevent and address drug use in the workplace, as well as the need for employers to be aware of the risks associated with drug use in the workplace.
For every dollar spent on an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), businesses save an average of $3 to $5.
This statistic is a powerful reminder of the value of investing in an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). By spending just one dollar on an EAP, businesses can reap a return of three to five times that amount. This demonstrates the potential for EAPs to be a cost-effective way to address the issue of drugs in the workplace, as well as other workplace issues.
About 57% of private-industry workers in the United States have access to an Employee Assistance Program.
This statistic is significant in the context of Drugs In The Workplace Statistics because it highlights the importance of Employee Assistance Programs in providing support to employees who may be struggling with substance abuse. With 57% of private-industry workers having access to such a program, it is clear that employers are taking steps to ensure that their employees have the resources they need to address any issues they may be facing.
Conclusion
Drugs in the workplace are a serious issue that can have far-reaching consequences for both employers and employees. Approximately 70% of illegal drug users are employed, costing American companies an estimated $81 billion each year. Drug abuse is linked to higher medical claims costs, more injury-related absences, and increased industrial fatalities and injuries. Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) offer businesses a way to reduce these costs by providing support services for workers with substance use disorders; research shows that every dollar spent on EAP yields between three and five dollars in savings. Employers should consider implementing such programs as part of their overall strategy to create safe working environments free from drugs or alcohol misuse or abuse.
References
0. - https://www.sba.gov
1. - https://www.bls.gov
2. - https://www.shrm.org
3. - https://www.samhsa.gov
4. - https://www.drugabuse.gov
5. - https://www.hamiltonproject.org
6. - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
7. - https://www.nsc.org
8. - https://www.dol.gov
9. - https://www.ncadd.org
