Landscaping Firm Implements Drug Testing

Architectural Landscaping, Inc., in Tucson, Arizona, creates 'outdoor living environments' by installing pools, masonry, and retaining walls, as well as plants. The firm employs 32 people, most of whom are in their early 20s. Twelve of these employees are administrative and clerical workers.

Several years ago, employee in-field performance and attendance were unsatisfactory. Workers began exhibiting symptoms that kept them from performing their jobs in a safe and timely manner. After numerous complaints from clients, it became apparent that there was a problem.

The firm immediately contacted colleagues in similar businesses to ask for information regarding substance abuse and to get their suggestions for potential solutions to the problem. The other companies warned that for the first few months, Architectural Landscaping would regret installing a substance abuse policy because of the turmoil it would create. It was a price worth paying; today, the company realizes that implementing a substance abuse policy was the best thing it ever did.

A meeting was held for all employees to outline a zero-tolerance substance abuse policy and to inform them that the policy was effective immediately for all new hires and would go into effect in 90 days for all current employees. Drug testing is conducted after industrial and vehicle accidents. Copies of the policy, including consent to be tested randomly at any time, are signed by all employees and kept in the personnel records.

If an employee fails the initial test, he must pay for it. All new hires are screened for drug use at company expense. They may start work, but on condition of a clean screen within six days. This procedure allows a reasonable opportunity for alcohol to pass through the system. Employees who test positive a second time are terminated.

The cost of the program is minimal. An independent, off-site clinic administers the screening test, which is done on the worker's time at a cost of $18. While cost savings are difficult to document, Architectural Landscaping feels its program ensures safe working conditions and that it has experienced improved morale-proof that some rewards go beyond the financial.