• Events
  • Marketplace
  • Resources
  • Press Releases
  • Business Directory
  • About Us
  • Advertise
  • Contact
The FUTURE OF WORK® since 2003
Allwork.Space
Subscribe
  • All Topics
    • Business
    • Biophilic Design
    • Career Growth
    • Coliving
    • Collaboration
    • Coworking
    • CRE
    • DE&I
    • Digital Nomads
    • Future of Work
    • Home Office
    • Human Resources (HR)
    • Hybrid Work
    • Investment
    • Leadership
    • Marketing
    • Mental Health
    • Mergers & Acquisitions
    • Office Furniture
    • Productivity
    • PropTech
    • Remote Work
    • Self-care
    • SMBs
    • Social Impact
    • Space-as-a-Service
    • Technology
    • Virtual Office
    • Work-life Balance
    • Workforce
    • Workplace Design
    • Workplace Wellness
  • News
  • Business
    How The Middle East Will Become A Financial Center In The Future Of Work

    How The Middle East Will Become A Financial Center In The Future Of Work

    Is Your Collaboration Smart

    Is Your Collaboration Smart?

    Demystifying Workplace Culture

    Demystifying Workplace Culture

    A Leader’s Guide To Creating Strong And Authentic Organizational Culture

    A Leader’s Guide To Creating Strong And Authentic Organizational Culture

    Boost Your Financial Know-How: Mastering Effective Strategies in the Future of Work

    Boost Your Financial Know-How: Mastering Effective Strategies in the Future of Work

    Why Human Connections Are A Business Advantage In A Remote World

    Why Human Connections Are A Business Advantage In A Remote World

    Is Adam Neumann’s Flow a bold new CRE/coworking venture, or just a repeat of past mistakes?

    Neumann’s Flow: A $1 Billion Valued Wildcard to Watch in 2023

    Identifying and Overcoming 4 Common Barriers to DEI

    Identifying and Overcoming 4 Common Barriers to DEI

    The Real Reasons for Hybrid Workers to Come to the Office

    The Real Reasons for Hybrid Workers to Come to the Office

  • Work-life
    A New Approach To Work: The Benefits Of Implementing Activity-Based Working In Your Office

    A New Approach To Work: The Benefits Of Implementing Activity-Based Working In Your Office

    Use These Tools to Make Your Remote Work Dreams Come True

    Use These Tools to Make Your Remote Work Dreams Come True

    Are Digital Nomads Catalysts For Growth Or A Hazard To Locals?

    Are Digital Nomads Catalysts For Growth Or A Hazard To Locals?

    New Postpartum Depression Breakthrough Could Rewrite The Future Of Work For Mothers

    New Postpartum Depression Breakthrough Could Rewrite The Future Of Work For Mothers

    How To Actually Get Sh*t Done Working From Home

    How To Actually Get Sh*t Done Working From Home

    Chart Your Path To Leadership: 8 Proven Steps To Build Your Professional Credibility

    Chart Your Path To Leadership: 8 Proven Steps To Build Your Professional Credibility

    When Too Much Talk Turns Toxic

    When Too Much Talk Turns Toxic

    Your Dream Workation In The Swiss Alps Awaits (And It's More Affordable Than You Think)

    Your Dream Workation In The Swiss Alps Awaits (And It’s More Affordable Than You Think)

    Should DEI be the Cornerstone of Your Workplace Strategy?

    Should DEI be the Cornerstone of Your Workplace Strategy?

  • Tech
    How Can We Navigate The Ethical Minefield Of AI Moderation In The Future Of Work?

    How Can We Navigate The Ethical Minefield Of AI Moderation In The Future Of Work?

    TikTok’s robust new RTO monitoring software sparks employee backlash, concerns about tracking.

    TikTok’s MyRTO: The Future Of Office Attendance Or Employee Tracking Nightmare?

    6 Ways 6G Will Reshape The Future Of Work And Connectivity

    6 Ways 6G Will Reshape The Future Of Work And Connectivity

    8 Reasons Gamification is More Than Fun and Games At Work

    8 Reasons Gamification is More Than Fun and Games At Work

    Nexudus Unveils OpenAI Integration For Seamless Help Desk Automation

    Nexudus Unveils OpenAI Integration For Seamless Help Desk Automation

    The AI Revolution Liberating Workers From The Office

    The AI Revolution Liberating Workers From The Office

    Aerial Shift: How Drones are Redrawing the Landscape of the Future Workplace

    Aerial Shift: How Drones are Redrawing the Landscape of the Future Workplace

    AI Solutions Won’t Solve Workplace Well-Being Woes

    AI Solutions Won’t Solve Workplace Well-Being Woes

    The Double Benefit Of Coworking Chat Apps

    The Double Benefit Of Coworking Chat Apps

  • Design
    Gen Z’s Impact On The Workplace: Tech-Enabled And Collaborative

    Gen Z’s Impact On The Workplace: Tech-Enabled And Collaborative

    4 Priorities To Consider When Designing Workplaces For Gen Z

    4 Priorities To Consider When Designing Workplaces For Gen Z

    A Playful Office Doesn’t Have To Look Like a Playground

    A Playful Office Doesn’t Have To Look Like a Playground

    From Ghost Town Fridays To Vibrant Workspaces: The Power Of Synchronicity In Office Design

    From Ghost Town Fridays To Vibrant Workspaces: The Power Of Synchronicity In Office Design

    How Can Office Design Support Multigenerational Collaboration?

    How Can Office Design Support Multigenerational Collaboration?

    Are We Losing Sight Of How To Build A Better Workplace For The Future Of Work?

    Are We Losing Sight Of How To Build A Better Workplace For The Future Of Work?

    How Do You Prepare Your Office For Future Success? Design It For Gen Z

    How Do You Prepare Your Office For Future Success? Design It For Gen Z

    The Future of Work Includes Everyone — Tailoring Office Spaces for Neurodiversity

    The Future of Work Includes Everyone — Tailoring Office Spaces for Neurodiversity

    Top 10 Ways To Make People Feel More Comfortable And Productive At Work

    Top 10 Ways To Make People Feel More Comfortable And Productive At Work

  • Workforce
    5 Ways To Avoid Well-Being Washing And Provide Authentic Support To Employees

    5 Ways To Avoid Well-Being Washing And Provide Authentic Support To Employees

    rust-Building in Remote Work The Synergy Between Telehealth And Employee Well-being

    Trust-Building in Remote Work: The Synergy Between Telehealth And Employee Well-being

    Without any widely agreed upon courses and certificates, individuals that want to prove their proficiency with AI need to show their work and prove their worth on an individual level rather than utilizing an online course or certificate.

    How Can You Showcase AI Skills To Supercharge Your Resume?

    Unlocking the HR Secrets of Hybrid Work

    Unlocking the HR Secrets of Hybrid Work

    Redefining Employee Experiences: Why Leading Companies Prioritize EX Design

    Redefining Employee Experiences: Why Leading Companies Prioritize EX Design

    Mothers with Young Children Defy Expectations, Reach Record High Workforce Participation

    Mothers with Young Children Defy Expectations, Reach Record High Workforce Participation

    Confronting The Bystander Effect In Workplace Harassment: 5 Strategies To Create A Bully-Free Workplace

    Confronting The Bystander Effect In Workplace Harassment: 5 Strategies To Create A Bully-Free Workplace

    The Surprising Strategy Bridging The Gap Between HR And Gen Z

    The Surprising Strategy Bridging The Gap Between HR And Gen Z

    The Death of Full-Time In-Office Work And The Rise Of Tomorrow's Corporate Titans

    The Death of Full-Time In-Office Work And The Rise Of Tomorrow’s Corporate Titans

  • Coworking
    Heads-up, Transactional Spaces: The Future Is Coming

    Heads-up, Transactional Spaces: The Future Is Coming

    Caffeine, Connection, And Career Growth: Coworking Cafés Are Brewing Productivity

    Caffeine, Connection, And Career Growth: Coworking Cafés Are Brewing Productivity

    It’s Time To Rethink Office Valuation Models

    It’s Time To Rethink Office Valuation Models

    Aiming Higher: Strategies to Advance Your Community Manager Career in Coworking Spaces

    Aiming Higher: Strategies to Advance Your Community Manager Career in Coworking Spaces

    WeWork’s Collapse Will Cause Massive Losses In The U.K. And Australia, Too

    WeWork’s Collapse Will Cause Massive Losses In The U.K. And Australia, Too

    How To Convert Clicks into Memberships: Optimizing Coworking Websites for Impactful Results

    Converting Clicks into Memberships: Optimizing Coworking Websites for Impactful Results

    Demand for Privacy and Security in Coworking and Flex Spaces Is Increasing: Is Your Business Prepared?

    Demand for Privacy and Security in Coworking and Flex Spaces Is Increasing: Is Your Business Prepared?

    WeWork Calls In Restructuring Advisors

    WeWork Calls In Restructuring Advisors

    WeWork’s Potential Bankruptcy What Will Be The Effect On Office Vacancy Rates

    WeWork’s Potential Bankruptcy: What Will Be The Effect On Office Vacancy Rates?

  • Marketing
    Take One Simple Step To Boost Buy-in And Brand Engagement

    Take One Simple Step To Boost Buy-in And Brand Engagement

    How Can Conversational Marketing Drive ROI And Human Connection In The Future Of Work?

    How Can Conversational Marketing Drive ROI And Human Connection In The Future Of Work?

    Community is Your Marketing Superpower

    Community is Your Marketing Superpower

    Unlock The Power Of Conversational Marketing To Attract and Retain Customers

    Unlock The Power Of Conversational Marketing To Attract and Retain Customers

    10 Reasons To Give Sprout Social A (Free) Try

    10 Reasons To Give Sprout Social A (Free) Try

    8 Reasons Why Sponsored Content Is Worth The Investment For Your Brand

    8 Reasons Why Sponsored Content Is Worth The Investment For Your Brand

    Instagram GenZ

    2023 Instagram Trends Reveal How To Market To Gen Z

    TrueView360 Interactive Virtual Tours

    TrueView360s Interactive Virtual Tours

    2023 Future Of Work Forecast: Focus Marketing On Values and Customer Experience, Not The Product

    2023 Future Of Work Forecast: Focus Marketing On Values and Customer Experience, Not The Product

  • CRE
    From Cubicles To Community Hubs: Reimagining Work As An Activity, Not A Place

    From Cubicles To Community Hubs: Reimagining Work As An Activity, Not A Place

    Dave Cairns

    Dave Cairns SVP of CBRE | Unlocking Urban Potential: Repurposing Office Spaces for Sustainable Development

    Remote Work And Rising Interest Rates Are Changing The Landscape Of Commercial Real Estate

    Remote Work And Rising Interest Rates Are Changing The Landscape Of Commercial Real Estate

    The Future of NYC Real Estate: How Remote Work is Reshaping Investment Dynamics

    The Future of NYC Real Estate: How Remote Work is Reshaping Investment Dynamics

    What's Going On With Office Vacancies?

    What’s Going On With Office Vacancies?

    75% Of Business Leaders Lack Data Needed For Crucial CRE Decisions

    75% Of Business Leaders Lack Data Needed For Crucial CRE Decisions

    Rapid Work Style Shifts Are Tanking Tax Revenues — Can City Planners Catch Up?

    Rapid Work Style Shifts Are Tanking Tax Revenues — Can City Planners Catch Up?

    San Francisco Skyline

    The Future of Commercial Real Estate in San Francisco Doesn’t Look Good

    3 Things CRE Players Must Do To Stay Relevant In 2023

    2023 Future Of Work Forecast: 3 Things CRE Players Must Do To Stay Relevant In 2023

  • Podcast
  • More
    • Advertise With Us
    • Marketplace
    • Events
  • All Topics
    • Business
    • Biophilic Design
    • Career Growth
    • Coliving
    • Collaboration
    • Coworking
    • CRE
    • DE&I
    • Digital Nomads
    • Future of Work
    • Home Office
    • Human Resources (HR)
    • Hybrid Work
    • Investment
    • Leadership
    • Marketing
    • Mental Health
    • Mergers & Acquisitions
    • Office Furniture
    • Productivity
    • PropTech
    • Remote Work
    • Self-care
    • SMBs
    • Social Impact
    • Space-as-a-Service
    • Technology
    • Virtual Office
    • Work-life Balance
    • Workforce
    • Workplace Design
    • Workplace Wellness
  • News
  • Business
    How The Middle East Will Become A Financial Center In The Future Of Work

    How The Middle East Will Become A Financial Center In The Future Of Work

    Is Your Collaboration Smart

    Is Your Collaboration Smart?

    Demystifying Workplace Culture

    Demystifying Workplace Culture

    A Leader’s Guide To Creating Strong And Authentic Organizational Culture

    A Leader’s Guide To Creating Strong And Authentic Organizational Culture

    Boost Your Financial Know-How: Mastering Effective Strategies in the Future of Work

    Boost Your Financial Know-How: Mastering Effective Strategies in the Future of Work

    Why Human Connections Are A Business Advantage In A Remote World

    Why Human Connections Are A Business Advantage In A Remote World

    Is Adam Neumann’s Flow a bold new CRE/coworking venture, or just a repeat of past mistakes?

    Neumann’s Flow: A $1 Billion Valued Wildcard to Watch in 2023

    Identifying and Overcoming 4 Common Barriers to DEI

    Identifying and Overcoming 4 Common Barriers to DEI

    The Real Reasons for Hybrid Workers to Come to the Office

    The Real Reasons for Hybrid Workers to Come to the Office

  • Work-life
    A New Approach To Work: The Benefits Of Implementing Activity-Based Working In Your Office

    A New Approach To Work: The Benefits Of Implementing Activity-Based Working In Your Office

    Use These Tools to Make Your Remote Work Dreams Come True

    Use These Tools to Make Your Remote Work Dreams Come True

    Are Digital Nomads Catalysts For Growth Or A Hazard To Locals?

    Are Digital Nomads Catalysts For Growth Or A Hazard To Locals?

    New Postpartum Depression Breakthrough Could Rewrite The Future Of Work For Mothers

    New Postpartum Depression Breakthrough Could Rewrite The Future Of Work For Mothers

    How To Actually Get Sh*t Done Working From Home

    How To Actually Get Sh*t Done Working From Home

    Chart Your Path To Leadership: 8 Proven Steps To Build Your Professional Credibility

    Chart Your Path To Leadership: 8 Proven Steps To Build Your Professional Credibility

    When Too Much Talk Turns Toxic

    When Too Much Talk Turns Toxic

    Your Dream Workation In The Swiss Alps Awaits (And It's More Affordable Than You Think)

    Your Dream Workation In The Swiss Alps Awaits (And It’s More Affordable Than You Think)

    Should DEI be the Cornerstone of Your Workplace Strategy?

    Should DEI be the Cornerstone of Your Workplace Strategy?

  • Tech
    How Can We Navigate The Ethical Minefield Of AI Moderation In The Future Of Work?

    How Can We Navigate The Ethical Minefield Of AI Moderation In The Future Of Work?

    TikTok’s robust new RTO monitoring software sparks employee backlash, concerns about tracking.

    TikTok’s MyRTO: The Future Of Office Attendance Or Employee Tracking Nightmare?

    6 Ways 6G Will Reshape The Future Of Work And Connectivity

    6 Ways 6G Will Reshape The Future Of Work And Connectivity

    8 Reasons Gamification is More Than Fun and Games At Work

    8 Reasons Gamification is More Than Fun and Games At Work

    Nexudus Unveils OpenAI Integration For Seamless Help Desk Automation

    Nexudus Unveils OpenAI Integration For Seamless Help Desk Automation

    The AI Revolution Liberating Workers From The Office

    The AI Revolution Liberating Workers From The Office

    Aerial Shift: How Drones are Redrawing the Landscape of the Future Workplace

    Aerial Shift: How Drones are Redrawing the Landscape of the Future Workplace

    AI Solutions Won’t Solve Workplace Well-Being Woes

    AI Solutions Won’t Solve Workplace Well-Being Woes

    The Double Benefit Of Coworking Chat Apps

    The Double Benefit Of Coworking Chat Apps

  • Design
    Gen Z’s Impact On The Workplace: Tech-Enabled And Collaborative

    Gen Z’s Impact On The Workplace: Tech-Enabled And Collaborative

    4 Priorities To Consider When Designing Workplaces For Gen Z

    4 Priorities To Consider When Designing Workplaces For Gen Z

    A Playful Office Doesn’t Have To Look Like a Playground

    A Playful Office Doesn’t Have To Look Like a Playground

    From Ghost Town Fridays To Vibrant Workspaces: The Power Of Synchronicity In Office Design

    From Ghost Town Fridays To Vibrant Workspaces: The Power Of Synchronicity In Office Design

    How Can Office Design Support Multigenerational Collaboration?

    How Can Office Design Support Multigenerational Collaboration?

    Are We Losing Sight Of How To Build A Better Workplace For The Future Of Work?

    Are We Losing Sight Of How To Build A Better Workplace For The Future Of Work?

    How Do You Prepare Your Office For Future Success? Design It For Gen Z

    How Do You Prepare Your Office For Future Success? Design It For Gen Z

    The Future of Work Includes Everyone — Tailoring Office Spaces for Neurodiversity

    The Future of Work Includes Everyone — Tailoring Office Spaces for Neurodiversity

    Top 10 Ways To Make People Feel More Comfortable And Productive At Work

    Top 10 Ways To Make People Feel More Comfortable And Productive At Work

  • Workforce
    5 Ways To Avoid Well-Being Washing And Provide Authentic Support To Employees

    5 Ways To Avoid Well-Being Washing And Provide Authentic Support To Employees

    rust-Building in Remote Work The Synergy Between Telehealth And Employee Well-being

    Trust-Building in Remote Work: The Synergy Between Telehealth And Employee Well-being

    Without any widely agreed upon courses and certificates, individuals that want to prove their proficiency with AI need to show their work and prove their worth on an individual level rather than utilizing an online course or certificate.

    How Can You Showcase AI Skills To Supercharge Your Resume?

    Unlocking the HR Secrets of Hybrid Work

    Unlocking the HR Secrets of Hybrid Work

    Redefining Employee Experiences: Why Leading Companies Prioritize EX Design

    Redefining Employee Experiences: Why Leading Companies Prioritize EX Design

    Mothers with Young Children Defy Expectations, Reach Record High Workforce Participation

    Mothers with Young Children Defy Expectations, Reach Record High Workforce Participation

    Confronting The Bystander Effect In Workplace Harassment: 5 Strategies To Create A Bully-Free Workplace

    Confronting The Bystander Effect In Workplace Harassment: 5 Strategies To Create A Bully-Free Workplace

    The Surprising Strategy Bridging The Gap Between HR And Gen Z

    The Surprising Strategy Bridging The Gap Between HR And Gen Z

    The Death of Full-Time In-Office Work And The Rise Of Tomorrow's Corporate Titans

    The Death of Full-Time In-Office Work And The Rise Of Tomorrow’s Corporate Titans

  • Coworking
    Heads-up, Transactional Spaces: The Future Is Coming

    Heads-up, Transactional Spaces: The Future Is Coming

    Caffeine, Connection, And Career Growth: Coworking Cafés Are Brewing Productivity

    Caffeine, Connection, And Career Growth: Coworking Cafés Are Brewing Productivity

    It’s Time To Rethink Office Valuation Models

    It’s Time To Rethink Office Valuation Models

    Aiming Higher: Strategies to Advance Your Community Manager Career in Coworking Spaces

    Aiming Higher: Strategies to Advance Your Community Manager Career in Coworking Spaces

    WeWork’s Collapse Will Cause Massive Losses In The U.K. And Australia, Too

    WeWork’s Collapse Will Cause Massive Losses In The U.K. And Australia, Too

    How To Convert Clicks into Memberships: Optimizing Coworking Websites for Impactful Results

    Converting Clicks into Memberships: Optimizing Coworking Websites for Impactful Results

    Demand for Privacy and Security in Coworking and Flex Spaces Is Increasing: Is Your Business Prepared?

    Demand for Privacy and Security in Coworking and Flex Spaces Is Increasing: Is Your Business Prepared?

    WeWork Calls In Restructuring Advisors

    WeWork Calls In Restructuring Advisors

    WeWork’s Potential Bankruptcy What Will Be The Effect On Office Vacancy Rates

    WeWork’s Potential Bankruptcy: What Will Be The Effect On Office Vacancy Rates?

  • Marketing
    Take One Simple Step To Boost Buy-in And Brand Engagement

    Take One Simple Step To Boost Buy-in And Brand Engagement

    How Can Conversational Marketing Drive ROI And Human Connection In The Future Of Work?

    How Can Conversational Marketing Drive ROI And Human Connection In The Future Of Work?

    Community is Your Marketing Superpower

    Community is Your Marketing Superpower

    Unlock The Power Of Conversational Marketing To Attract and Retain Customers

    Unlock The Power Of Conversational Marketing To Attract and Retain Customers

    10 Reasons To Give Sprout Social A (Free) Try

    10 Reasons To Give Sprout Social A (Free) Try

    8 Reasons Why Sponsored Content Is Worth The Investment For Your Brand

    8 Reasons Why Sponsored Content Is Worth The Investment For Your Brand

    Instagram GenZ

    2023 Instagram Trends Reveal How To Market To Gen Z

    TrueView360 Interactive Virtual Tours

    TrueView360s Interactive Virtual Tours

    2023 Future Of Work Forecast: Focus Marketing On Values and Customer Experience, Not The Product

    2023 Future Of Work Forecast: Focus Marketing On Values and Customer Experience, Not The Product

  • CRE
    From Cubicles To Community Hubs: Reimagining Work As An Activity, Not A Place

    From Cubicles To Community Hubs: Reimagining Work As An Activity, Not A Place

    Dave Cairns

    Dave Cairns SVP of CBRE | Unlocking Urban Potential: Repurposing Office Spaces for Sustainable Development

    Remote Work And Rising Interest Rates Are Changing The Landscape Of Commercial Real Estate

    Remote Work And Rising Interest Rates Are Changing The Landscape Of Commercial Real Estate

    The Future of NYC Real Estate: How Remote Work is Reshaping Investment Dynamics

    The Future of NYC Real Estate: How Remote Work is Reshaping Investment Dynamics

    What's Going On With Office Vacancies?

    What’s Going On With Office Vacancies?

    75% Of Business Leaders Lack Data Needed For Crucial CRE Decisions

    75% Of Business Leaders Lack Data Needed For Crucial CRE Decisions

    Rapid Work Style Shifts Are Tanking Tax Revenues — Can City Planners Catch Up?

    Rapid Work Style Shifts Are Tanking Tax Revenues — Can City Planners Catch Up?

    San Francisco Skyline

    The Future of Commercial Real Estate in San Francisco Doesn’t Look Good

    3 Things CRE Players Must Do To Stay Relevant In 2023

    2023 Future Of Work Forecast: 3 Things CRE Players Must Do To Stay Relevant In 2023

  • Podcast
  • More
    • Advertise With Us
    • Marketplace
    • Events
No Result
View All Result
Allwork.Space
Nexudus Ad
Home Business

Some Companies Are Getting Rid Of Drug Testing, Here’s Why You May Want To Follow Suit

byAayat Ali
September 24, 2021
in Business, Work-life
Reading Time: 12 mins read
A A
Some Companies Are Getting Rid Of Drug Testing

Many companies still require drug tests for their employees or prospects and condemn drug use, even in states where substances like cannabis are completely legal.

Share on FacebookShare on TwitterShare to Network
OfficerRnD_ Flex Startup Program_Image_Leaderboard_AllWork_728x90
  • What is substance use?
  • How are workplaces addressing changing drug laws?
  • What can leaders do to create a safe workplace?

Today’s younger generations have played a huge role in tackling taboo subjects head on.

Whether it’s mental health, substance use and misuse, environmental issues, economic disparities, or what have you, younger generations have become more open to talking about challenging topics.

With this, culture and laws in the U.S. have also shifted to address some of these issues.

And one of the most controversial of these topics?

The legalization of both medical and recreational cannabis use.

Over the past several years, 33 states have legalized cannabis in some shape or manner. Even more recently, Oregon decriminalized small amounts of all hard drugs. 

However, cannabis remains illegal on a federal level. But that does not mean sentiment hasn’t changed.

With time, society has strayed far away from the fear of cannabis use portrayed in movies like Reefer Madness. 

Instead, attitudes towards this drug have become increasingly tolerant in recent years.

Simultaneously, the way society once viewed addiction is also changing. 

What was once met with great force, resistance, and punishment is now perceived as more of a behavioral health issue.

However, many companies still require drug tests for their employees or prospects and condemn drug use, even in states where substances like cannabis are completely legal.

The definition of substance use refers to using drugs or alcohol, including cigarettes, prescriptions drugs, and more. 

While clearly a broad term, it is still used to highlight restrictions that companies have in their guidelines.

However, the world is changing and it may be time for employers to do the same.

So can we expect companies to adjust their attitudes in relation to cannabis usage? Should organizations reconsider their own substance policies to address the mental health implications?


Shifting Attitudes In The Workplace

Substance use in certain work environments should always be disciplined. For example, no one would want to board a plane if the pilot is intoxicated. 

Similarly, intoxication isn’t tolerated for most blue-collar and office employees at work. 

This is in stark contrast to executives and business owners who make high-dollar deals entertaining clients out on the town — or on the golf course — while clearly over the limit.

Whether it’s alcohol or cannabis, using substances while working is irresponsible and can create safety hazards for the user and their colleagues.

But what about outside the office? 

There are still certain policies that touch on cannabis use outside of the workplace even in legal states, such as:

  • Pre-employment drug testing
  • Condemnation of most substance use
  • Barring applicants with past non-violent convictions

Even companies that operate in states like California and Colorado, both of which have relatively liberal cannabis laws, can have strict guidelines against cannabis usage outside of the office.

But does substance use equate substance addiction?

There are still misconceptions about substance use vs misuse, even in places with the most laid-back laws and regulations.

Despite employees legally being allowed to use cannabis, their jobs still prohibit them from doing so. 

Additionally, people with past drug-related convictions have reported facing challenges trying to get their past charges expunged in states that have legalized cannabis.

Such roadblocks that legal states place in front of these individuals makes it harder for them to get hired.

On one hand, applicants are being told that their past mistakes can forever haunt them when seeking new career paths. On the other hand, although these individuals are trying to better themselves by seeking out work, they are still punished.

Even more, instead of trying to address potential mental health issues that are sometimes tied to substance use, employers find it easier to turn away applicants or fire employees that fail a drug test.

In fact, research from JAMA Psychiatry showed that while 14% of the U.S. population suffers from alcohol abuse, only 8% receive treatment. 

So how can workers who are actually struggling win?

Cannabis itself is complex and there is no one correct answer about whether its use indicates mental health problems or addiction.

While such challenges aren’t always the reason for cannabis use, psychologists do note that individuals may use this drug as a way to escape or numb other issues.

But like many changes in the workplace, leaders are still incredibly resistant to changing their policies and tackling drug use as a mental health problem rather than frivolous partying.


The Impact On Businesses

The Impact On Businesses

Companies have the right to enforce their own rules and regulations so long as they are not discriminatory.

However, could companies be losing out on new opportunities by setting certain regulations?

Think about it.

One of the biggest trends to have emerged in the past year or so has been the power of choice and freedom for employees. 

By prohibiting workers from partaking in substance use outside of the office, leaders may be deemed as controlling. 

So how much should leaders be allowed to monitor their employees, especially outside of the office? When is it reasonable to require a drug test for applicants?

Drug testing policy

Leaders should consider the following when deciding whether to implement a drug testing policy:

  • Cost
    • Does your company have the budget for drug tests? 
    • Research from Statistic Brain shows that the 56% of companies who participate in pre-employment drug testing pay $3,750,500,000 annually.
  • Mitigation
    • Will drug tests help mitigate safety risks in the workplace? Drug tests have been found to reduce the risk of health problems, absenteeism, and on-site injury.
  • Candidate Experience
    • Will a drug test hinder the applicant and onboarding process? As mentioned earlier, the employee experience has become increasingly important, and a drawn out hiring process may be unpleasant for candidates.
  • Speed
    • Does your company have the time to spare? Drug tests can often take multiple days to process.

Additionally, your company should consider whether this process will discourage top candidates from applying to your company altogether. 

Perhaps your company is better off adjusting their policies around substance use.

Of course, it depends.

Does implementing this type of policy scare away qualified applicants, especially younger candidates? Maybe.

However, the concern that may emerge from looser hiring protocols is how to appropriately conduct background checks.

It starts with having an open mind and leading with empathy.

Often, any sort of conviction that comes to light during background checks usually leads companies to throw out applications, regardless of the applicants’ previous experience.

For states that have legalized cannabis or other substances, someone that is unable to have their previous nonviolent conviction expunged could end up being your best salesman.

Even outside of legal states, employers should consider how they view past convictions in relation to mental health. By offering an empathetic approach, candidates can see that your company understands this is not a black-and-white issue.


Potential Labor Shortages

Potential Labor Shortages

Another element you should consider are the political implications that come with a draconian drug testing policy. 

Although politics is not always a determining factor in where a person chooses to work or apply for work, continuing forward with drug testing may turn off  potentially great employees.

This is particularly important as we are officially in an era where corporate social justice is incredibly important to younger professionals.

In fact, the 2020 Porter Novelli Executive Purpose Study revealed that 83% of executives feel that businesses play a huge part in driving change for social issues.

Ignoring this shift in culture can impact how much talent is attracted to your company, and potentially lead to labor shortages.

For instance, if a potential candidate sees that your company will not fill a position due to a drug testing result, they may be discouraged from applying altogether.

While there are many preconceived notions about what a failed drug test could mean about a person, companies who turn their back on these applicants risk losing out on:

  • Top talent both young and qualified
  • Improved reputation
  • Creating a safe workplace culture

While it may be hard to determine whether drug testing is hindering your hiring efforts, leaders benefit from always questioning their processes and seeking the best method of operating.


How To Keep The Workplace Safe

How To Keep The Workplace Safe

The argument that drug testing does not keep the workplace safe is arguable. 

It absolutely can play a pivotal role depending on the industry and job position itself.

However!

There are far more serious and frequent hazards beyond substance use that are easily preventable if leaders accommodate the needs of their employees.

Challenges that can actually impact employees in the workplace include:

  • Work-related stress
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Poor sleeping habits
  • Burnout caused by working long hours
  • Lack of social support
  • Economic insecurity

As of February 2021, four in ten U.S. adults have reported symptoms of anxiety or depressive disorder as a result of the pandemic, an increase from the one in ten reported during January to June of 2019. 

This finding from the Kaiser Family Foundation highlights the fact that the roadblocks mentioned above are largely driven by the stress related to potential job loss, isolation (which can be caused by poor remote working arrangements), and the anxiety of contracting Covid-19.

Not only can these insecurities lead to substance use, such issues can also lead to physical health problems that cause actual hazards in the workplace.

If that doesn’t necessitate the need for business leaders to improve the employee experience, what does?

Although caring for mental health has historically been the responsibility of employees, data from the CDC found that combining medical and behavioral health care services could allow the U.S. to save between $37.6 billion to $67.8 billion each year.

Luckily, there are still strategies you can implement to ensure that your employees are not only supported, but that the workplace stays safe.

Policies to mitigate mental health risks in the workplace

To combat such issues, the CDC and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) recommend implementing the following policies to mitigate mental health risks in the workplace:

  • Utilize mental health assessments to keep a pulse on how workers are feeling
  • Provide free or inexpensive access to mental health screenings
  • Offer health insurance that includes coverage for mental health services
  • Educate employees and train managers to spot the signs of potential mental health issues, including symptoms and risks
  • If substance abuse is suspected, provide the worker with access to tools and resources that can help them on the path to recovery
  • Host events that focus on self-care, wellness, and other exercises that can alleviate stress
  • Lead with empathy and open up a channel of communication that allows workers to speak out when something is wrong

These types of policies are not just nice to have — they are essential in the modern-day workforce.

Without this type of support, top talent could walk away from their place of employment.


Mental Health Over Criminality

Mental Health Over Criminality

Equipping managers with the appropriate tools and resources could be the method that actually helps an employee struggling with substance abuse issues.

Having a fresh mindset into what causes health hazards in the workplace means taking an inward look into how your business operates.

Is an applicants’ use of cannabis a sign that they are incapable of working appropriately? Are they coping with deeper mental health issues? Do they simply use it to unwind after a stressful day?

Aside from trying to understand the reasons behind a failed drug test, also consider how this correlates with your state’s current laws. 

Does the applicant have a medical cannabis prescription? Should you view recreational cannabis usage as similar to alcohol consumption when done outside of the workplace?

Whatever the reason may be, approaching drug use should come from a place of empathy.

While it has long been ingrained in our society that drug use should equate to criminality and punishment, history shows that this might not be the most effective way in helping those who could be facing real substance abuse problems.

And while it is tempting to eliminate prospects over a failed drug test, understand this:

The tides are turning in terms of drug laws and will likely continue to do so over the next several years. 

If businesses continue with older policies that do not address new laws, they risk losing out on top talent, which could hurt their employment and hiring processes in the future.

Now is the time for businesses to adapt, reevaluate, reflect, and reconsider what constitutes a truly healthy and safe workplace.

Subscribe to Allwork.Space
Tags: Self-care
Aayat Ali

Aayat Ali

Aayat is an editor for the Daily Digest based in Lexington, Kentucky. She has worked with local coworking spaces since August of 2017 and enjoys taking her firsthand knowledge to write about the fascinating, constantly evolving world of flexible workspaces.

No Result
View All Result
OfficerRnD_ Flex Startup Program_Illustration_Square_AllWork_300х250
Survey

Latest News

Amid Global Challenges, WeWork Bets Big On Dublin

Amid Global Challenges, WeWork Bets Big On Dublin

September 22, 2023
Employers Starting To Win Return-to-Office Battle In Major U.S. Cities

Employers Starting To Win Return-to-Office Battle In Major U.S. Cities

September 22, 2023
Demand For Eco-Conscious “Green Skills” On The Rise

Demand For Eco-Conscious “Green Skills” On The Rise

September 22, 2023
Risky Business: Gen Z is Skipping the Fine Print in Employment Contracts

Risky Business: Gen Z is Skipping the Fine Print in Employment Contracts

September 22, 2023
Travel Providers are Turning to Technology to Fill Labor Gaps

Travel Providers are Turning to Technology to Fill Labor Gaps

September 21, 2023
Sardinia’s Ollolai offers a unique visa, paying digital nomads to live and share expertise locally.

Work Rent-Free In Italy? New Visa Makes It Possible

September 21, 2023

News and Features

Business

Tech

Marketing

Design

Work-life

CRE

Coworking

Workforce

Daily Digest

Podcast

Resources

Marketplace

Events

Press Releases

FlexSpace, Coworking
and Office Space

Los Angeles

New York

Chicago

Washington, D.C.

Houston

Dallas

Miami

San Francisco

Atlanta

Philadelphia

Seattle

Austin

Company

About Us

Submit to Allwork.Space

Contact

Advertise

FlexSpace

Terms Of Use

FlexSpace FAQs

Privacy Policy

Connect with Allwork.Space

Twitter

Linkedin

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Google Podcasts

©2023 Allwork.Space  l  Exploring the FUTURE OF WORK® since 2003.

No Result
View All Result
  • News
  • Topics
    • Work-life
    • Workforce
    • Design
    • Tech
    • Coworking
    • Business
    • CRE
    • Marketing
  • Experts
    • Podcast
    • Opinions
  • Resources
    • Research + Reports
    • Marketplace
    • Find Office Space
    • Find Remote Jobs
    • Press
  • Events
  • About Us
    • Advertise
    • Submit to Allwork.Space
    • Contact
Subscribe

Welcome Back!

Login to your account below

Forgotten Password?

Retrieve your password

Please enter your username or email address to reset your password.

Log In
This website uses cookies. By continuing to use this website you are giving consent to cookies being used. Visit our Privacy and Cookie Policy.
-
00:00
00:00

Queue

Update Required Flash plugin
-
00:00
00:00