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Safety Goes Beyond the Workplace

TOLEDO, Ohio - September 27, 2012 - Narcotics appear in the top 10 most prescribed medications in many prescription utilization reports. Staggering numbers of narcotic and addictive pain medications are prescribed by physicians today. As employers, it is important to urge reduction of narcotic, opioid, CNS depressants, and stimulant usage when not required or prescribed by a physician in order to decrease devastating loss of productivity and billions of dollars of direct workplace loss. All of these drugs have addictive properties and some are deadly, if taken improperly.

Opioids are medications that typically treat pain and are highly addictive. CNS depressants are prescribed for anxiety or sleep disorders. Stimulants are usually prescribed for disorders like Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). All of the forms of medications mentioned above are abused in the United States by individuals of all ages. The age group that suffers death from opioid abuse more than any other age group is the 45-54 year olds, many of whom are employed.

Substance and prescription drug addiction is a serious burden to the American workforce. In 2007, opioid abuse cost employers $25.6 billion due to premature death, lost productivity, and lost employment. Over $25 billion in 2007 were attributable to direct medical and prescription costs of opioids.

Employees with substance abuse or addictive behaviors are often less likely to show up to work on time, and more likely to leave early and be less productive. Symptoms of substance abuse among the workforce include:

• Change in work pace
• Errors in judgment
• Stealing from co-workers or employer
• Increase in number of mistakes
• Outbursts in temper
• Increased absenteeism
• Inability to meet deadlines
• Change in quality of work

Many schools celebrate Red Ribbon Week, October 23-31, 2012, in effort to prevent illicit and prescription drug use among our youth. In conjunction with this event sponsored by the National Family Partnership at Informed Families Education Center, consider promoting the prevention of substance abuse among your employees.   

What can you do as an employer?

• Consider creating an official policy against alcohol and drug use in the workplace. Create a culture that embraces substance abuse prevention and supports healthy lifestyles. Provide access to treatment and support for those who may need help with detoxification.
  
• For more resources about drug abuse in the workplace, please visit the website for the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

Be the proactive force in your employees’ lives by promoting healthy practices at work as well as at home.

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If you have any questions on how your company can keep employees safe at home, please contact Jerid Baxter, Health & Wellness Strategies Practice Leader, or your Hylant representative.