The cost of not drug testing: calculate the savings of implementing a drug testing program

Hiring practices and retention of top talent rank as some of the most important priorities for a company. Making these assessments is not easy and can be costly. Time is needed to analyze potential risk and evaluate the overall value of a workplace drug testing program. Decision-makers now have a comprehensive tool to aid in the vetting process for drug testing.

When looking at your drug testing program, there are estimated percentages and dollar amount savings tied to reduction of common employee behaviors. Our Drug Testing Savings Calculator gives insight into the cost and savings in recruiting and training, reduced absenteeism, on-the-job accidents, and workers’ compensation, taking into account your company’s size and needs. And, you can estimate these savings specific to your company and its workforce.

Drug Testing Needs Assessment – Complete the assessment to determine the drug testing solution that best matches your needs.

The cost of not drug testing

• Additional recruiting and training efforts
• More absenteeism
• More accidents
• More workers compensation claims

 Here are 4 ways your company can save money by implementing a workplace drug testing program.

Recruiting and training savings

• Pre-employment drug testing can help save recruiting costs by drug screening qualified candidates before making a job offer.

Lower absenteeism

• Employees who use drugs are absent from work on average 50% more days than non-users, according to the National Safety Council. 
• Seventy-four billion dollars are lost in productivity each year due to alcohol consumption, according to the National Safety Council.
• Even if an employee is using drugs or alcohol outside of working hours, it may lead to hangovers, loss of production at work, and increased likelihood of injury, according to The Addiction Center.

Fewer accidents

• Research shows that screening for drug use can help reduce on-the-job accidents and workplace crimes, including theft and violence, according to EHS Today.
• Employees who suffer from drug or alcohol dependency are nearly three times more likely to either cause or personally experience an injury-related absence from work, according to Occupational Health & Safety.

Lower workers compensation claims

• Employees who use drugs are more likely to be involved in a workplace accident and more likely to file a workers compensation claim, according to the National Safety Council.
• More on-the job accidents lead to increasing workers compensation claims.

Lower healthcare costs

• Drug testing can lead to lower healthcare costs and premiums for employers. A report by the Surgeon General, states that the U.S. spends $35 billion a year to treat substance use disorders and $85 billion to treat injuries caused by substance use.

Get started by referencing our Guide to Establishing a Workplace Drug Testing Program.

Start your journey to a drug-free workplace by determining your return on investment (ROI) using our Drug Testing Savings Calculator. Quest Diagnostics is more than just a laboratory; we are a true partner in success.

For more information about drug testing, visit our website or contact us online.