Drug use is rampant in almost any kind of environment. Workspaces are not immune which is why supervisors and managers need to have the proper training to identify who is likely to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs while on the job. The assurance that workers are on the job free from the influence of alcohol or drugs helps minimize workplace accidents and injuries, reduces downtime and increases efficiency. This is where reasonable suspicion training for supervisors comes in.
Reasonable Suspicion Training: What is it?
Reasonable suspicion training is training to teach supervisors techniques to identify the signs and circumstances that create a reasonable suspicion of drug or alcohol use. Training also extends to knowing the referral procedures to the appropriate agencies for testing.
Training is conducted by accredited agencies. Supervisors also have the option to take the training course online to accommodate their work schedules.
The Reasonable Suspicion Process
Training takes students through the process of making a reasonable suspicion determination. The process involves:
observation
confirmation
documentation
confrontation
testing
Training does not end with testing, however. Supervisors are also equipped with skills and resources to help workers overcome substance abuse. Skills in providing help such as referral to AA or NA groups and psychologists can be instrumental in helping employees avoid future drug or alcohol use, in and out of the workplace.
Why conduct reasonable suspicion training?
Aside from the fact that certain forms of drug use are prohibited by law, the use of drugs or alcohol in the workplace can pose serious safety hazards especially for workers performing safety-sensitive tasks. Professional drivers and operators of heavy machinery, for example, should not be on the job while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. With proper training, supervisors in these industries gain the skills and confidence they need to make the appropriate reasonable suspicion determinations.
Who should take a reasonable suspicion training course?
Supervisors are tasked to undergo training so that they can learn to identify potential substance use and abuse. These trainings are mandatory in workplaces where safety considerations are paramount.
Reasonable suspicion training is a mandatory course for many workplaces and for a good reason. Companies need the assurance that employees are performing their tasks free from the influence of alcohol or drugs. Supervisors equipped with detection skills can help ensure that these standards are maintained for employee safety and to make sure that industry standards are followed.
