When people think about impaired driving, they think about driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. But impairment also can be caused by medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Some, including opioids prescribed to relieve pain, can cause dizziness and fatigue.
Get the free Opioids at Work Employer Toolkit from the National Safety Council and take steps to address safety issues at your organization. The kit will help you:
- Understand opioids and how they impact job performance and your bottom line
- Recognize the signs of impairment
- Educate employees on risks of opioid use
- Incorporate the right elements into drug-related HR policies and procedures
- Support employees who are struggling with opioid misuse or opioid use disorder
This free toolkit includes sample policies, fact sheets, 5-minute safety talks, posters and videos, and is intended to assist you in implementing your own workplace safety program.
Drug-impaired driving incidents are on the rise. In fact, more than half of drivers admitted to U.S. trauma centers following crashes, tested positive for drugs other than alcohol, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, and 1 in 4 tested positive for marijuana. Much like alcohol, medications can slow reaction time, cloud judgment and decrease hand-eye coordination, all skills necessary for safe driving and efficiency at work.
What is the real cost of substance use in your workforce? Use the NSC Substance Use Cost Calculator to find out