what course of action do i have if colleague is using drugs

by Emmie Vandervort 7 min read

What to do if you suspect an employee is using drugs?

If you have a reasonable suspicion of an employee's drug use, so long as you follow your state's laws for performing an employee drug test, there is generally no legal concern. If the test comes back positive, you will usually be clear to terminate, or discipline the employee, for cause.

What would you do if you suspect a colleague were abusing drugs?

If you suspect that a co-worker has a substance abuse problem, do not try to diagnose the problem....Advice for ColleaguesDocument incidents and record time and dates.Go to your supervisor.Consult your human resources department for guidance.

What can I do if I suspect an employee is under the influence?

What to Do if You Suspect an Employee is Under the Influence at WorkKnow the Laws. ... Avoid Making Accusations. ... Refer to Your Company Policy. ... Be Prepared to Make Accommodations if Necessary. ... Common Signs of Employee Alcohol or Drug Use. ... Employee Drug and Alcohol Testing in Renton, WA.

Can you fire an employee for drug use?

While employers are free to terminate and can refuse to hire anyone whose alcohol or drug use impairs their ability to perform the duties of their job, employers cannot fire or take other negative employment actions against an employee because of their status as an alcoholic or drug addict. California and federal laws ...

Can you ask an employee about drug use?

Asking About Legal Drug Use The EEOC memo says that you can't ask employees about prior or present legal drug use, unless the question is “innocuous” and won't bring out information about a disability.

How can I get someone fired?

If you feel like you need to get someone fired, schedule a meeting with your manager or supervisor. If you can, bring along written evidence of the other person's wrongdoings, as well as statements from any other coworkers who might feel the same way.

How do you handle an impaired employee?

Discuss your observations – don't accuse the employee of intoxication. Tell them what you both noticed and ask them to respond. Symptoms might be due to other factors such as stress, lack of sleep, and prescription medications. Offer resources – if your company has an Employee Assistance Program, refer them to it.

What should you do if you believe a coworker is intoxicated on the job?

If an employee comes to work intoxicated but is not exhibiting violence, have security usher him to a safe place at your business. Contact the human resources department and report the intoxication. Call someone in the employee's family or local law enforcement to have the employee taken home.

What led to the drug Free workplace Act?

81) is an act of the United States which requires some federal contractors and all federal grantees to agree that they will provide drug-free workplaces as a precondition of receiving a contract or grant from a Federal agency....Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988.Enacted bythe 100th United States CongressLegislative history5 more rows

How can you tell if an employee is high?

Here are 22 characteristics that define most high-potential employees.They're good at what they do. ... They jump on leadership opportunities. ... They work well autonomously. ... They take initiative. ... They are interested in where the company is going. ... They don't buckle under pressure. ... They ask questions.More items...

Should a boss drink with employees?

Managers should never offer to get a drink with or buy drinks for their subordinates. Drinking with a manager has the potential to put employees in an uncomfortable situation. Unless the manager is inviting and buying for everyone, it could appear that they're playing favorites.