Modern Contractor Solutions February 2025 - 18

management solution
SCREENING
Blueprint for Safety
prevent injuries with drug screening and background checks
By Tom Ellis
T
he construction industry is inherently
demanding, both physically and
mentally, as workers engage in
operating heavy machinery and hazardous
tools. There is very little room for error:
even minor lapses in attention or reflexes
can create a dangerous scenario causing
injuries, or in some cases, fatalities. In such
a high-stakes environment, it is crucial to
adopt preventive measures that mitigate risks,
and one effective strategy is implementing
robust background checks and drug
screening programs.
DANGERS OF IMPAIRMENT
According to a report from the American
Addiction Centers, approximately 15
percent of construction workers grapple with
substance use disorders-over 75 percent
higher than the national average of 8.6
percent among adults. Alarmingly, nearly 20
percent of workplace fatalities in construction
involve individuals under the influence of
drugs or alcohol. These statistics represent
a dire need for change. Construction leaders
need to prioritize proactive measures
to prevent impairment and enhance
workplace safety.
Employers in construction have a
legal obligation to ensure a safe working
environment as well as a moral responsibility
to their employees. Drug screening serves as
a key preventive strategy, helping to create
safer job sites by vetting potential hires
and conducting regular checks on current
workers. Initial screenings can help eliminate
candidates who might pose an undue risk due
to substance abuse, while ongoing testing
fosters accountability among existing workers.
Continuous drug screening practices allow
for real-time monitoring of substance use
patterns, acting as a deterrent and reinforcing
the need for workers to remain vigilant
regarding their personal choices. Random
drug tests serve as a reminder of shared
responsibility for safety, encouraging workers
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FEBRUARY 2025
to stay mindful of their actions in relation to
both their safety and that of their colleagues.
Comprehensive drug testing protocols can
significantly diminish risks associated with
accidents and injuries that may otherwise
be preventable.
BROADER BENEFITS OF
SCREENING
Beyond the immediate safety benefits, drug
screening brings additional advantages
to construction companies. A positive,
substance-free workplace is inherently
linked to heightened productivity, reduced
workers' compensation costs, and an
improved organizational reputation. When
workers operate without the influence
of substances, they are more likely to
perform at higher levels of efficiency and
effectiveness. Fewer accidents translate
to less downtime, streamlined project
timelines, and substantial cost savings for
the organization.
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Modern Contractor Solutions February 2025

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