These elements include: (1) program content based on proven prevention theory and research, (2) comprehensive approaches that address multiple risk and protective factors and that generalize across settings, (3) material that is relevant during important transitions in an employee's life and career, (4) sensitivity to the culture of the workplace and the community, (5) sufficient dosage and follow-up, (6) the use of interactive teaching techniques, (7) training for prevention program providers, and (8) evaluation to know that the intervention had the desired effect on behavior. However, the data emerging from prevention studies are preliminary; no programs have yet been adequately evaluated. The limited research on workplace prevention is a major barrier to making workplace prevention programs attractive to employers. Health promotion programs may provide a means for providing drug abuse prevention. In addition, concern about containing health care costs through managed care may provide a rationale for prevention programs. However, much work remains to make drug prevention a reality in the workplace. Evaluation studies are needed to determine the most essential content and programmatic issues that need to be addressed. 27 references (Author abstract modified)