A process employed by employers or their insurance carriers to determine the presence of controlled substances in an employee’s system following a workplace injury or incident. The primary goal is to ascertain whether drug use contributed to the event, as this can significantly affect the eligibility for benefits. For instance, if a construction worker sustains an injury on the job and a subsequent screening reveals the presence of impairing substances, it could impact the approval of medical expense coverage and lost wage replacement.
The practice offers multiple advantages, including fostering safer work environments, reducing fraudulent claims, and controlling insurance costs. Historically, the implementation arose from a need to mitigate risks associated with substance abuse in various industries, particularly those involving heavy machinery or hazardous materials. Its widespread adoption has led to a decrease in workplace accidents and a more responsible approach to claims management, ensuring that resources are allocated appropriately.
