Alcohol and Drug Use in the Workplace: A Survey of Alberta Workers

Abstract

There has been growing concern throughout North America over the problem of substance use in the workplace. 1’2 This concern is periodically heightened by reports of transportation accidents where alcohol or drug use have been implicated) Research in the United States has shown that depending on location, industry, and company, the proportion of employees testing positive for drugs can range from 1% to 30%.4 Research which has specifically compared rates among industry and occupation, however, is limited2 Various measures, ranging from drug testing to employee assistance programs, have been proposed as remedies. 6 The lack of accurate information on the true extent of the problem has, however, limited the effectiveness of workplace interventions. 7,8