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Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention and the ADA: An Employer's Guide

NCJ Number
159812
Author(s)
M A de Bernardo
Date Published
1992
Length
125 pages
Annotation
Goals for a drug-free workplace are specified in the context of provisions of the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) that concern substance abuse and disability issues.
Abstract
An important part of the ADA is an effective educational component, and educational efforts need to target both employers and individuals with disabilities who have substance abuse problems. A legislative history and overview of the ADA are presented, along with key definitions under the ADA. Substance abuse and the ADA are examined in terms of the ADA's impact on employer substance abuse prevention programs and drug and alcohol testing. Common questions about substance abuse and the ADA are noted, and an employer blueprint for achieving compliance with the ADA is included. The author points out that employers need to balance and defend their decisions on putting only straight and sober persons in safety-sensitive positions versus legitimate interests of recovering drug addicts and alcholics under the ADA. Supplemental information on the ADA, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and drug and alcohol abuse is appended.