Drugs in the Workplace: Setting the Record Straight

Abstract

In a recent article in the Journal of Drug Issues (fall 1992), Crow and Hartman raised a number of questions concerning the magnitude of drug use in the workplace, the efficacy of drug-screening programs, and the use of employment testing in general. Although these authors raised some useful issues, they may have overstated their case. In the present article the author comments on the extent of the drug problem in the workplace and points out an additional, well-designed study that did conclude drug testing may be cost-effective. Similarly, recent federal civil rights laws may have less effect on drug-testing programs than suggested by Crow and Hartman. Finally, employment testing is far more valid and unbiased than suggested by Crow and Hartman.