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What happens if you tell your employer you have a drug problem?
In the US, your employer can discipline or fire you if your alcohol or drug use impairs your ability to do your job. However, employers cannot discipline or fire you simply because you tell them you have a substance problem.
Can you lose your job for taking drugs?
While it is true that employees guilty of drug use, even outside work, leave themselves exposed to dismissal on grounds of either capability, conduct or “some other substantial reason” (especially if use of the drugs in question is itself illegal) that decision cannot be automatic.
Why would an employer drug test an applicant?
The applicant knows that such testing will be part of the screening process for new employees (for example, because the job application said so or because the employer’s online job posting stated that a drug test would be required). The employer has already offered the applicant the job, contingent on passing a drug test.
Can you refuse to take a workplace drug test?
And a legal secretary found slumped at her desk, unable to respond cogently to questions asked of her, was also considered fair game for a drug test. As an employee, you can always refuse to take a workplace drug test. But, if you are fired because of your refusal, you may have little recourse.
Can a company drug test an employee after an accident?
Courts have generally ruled that companies may test employees after an accident that could have been caused by drug use or an incident in which the employee appeared to be impaired. For example, a bulldozer operator who swerved the machine through a field crowded with workers could be the legal target of drug testing.
Can you be tested for drug use in a private job?
There are some legal constraints on testing employees for drug usage in most private employment jobs.