Substance Abuse Policy Saves Cash

'A couple of years ago,' Jerry Moland says, 'I had my head buried in the sand. I saw it in the news, read it in the paper, but figured it was spacefiller.' But Moland, owner of Turfcare Landscape, Inc., in Chandler, Arizona, whose motto is 'we sell our TLC,' had substance abuse problems in his work force.

Problems surfaced when an irrigation worker submitted to a drug test and tested positive for marijuana, cocaine, and amphetamines. Moland was also informed of occasional on-the-job marijuana smoking by some employees. Clearly, the failed drug test was not an isolated incident.

Moland contacted a drug-testing firm, which provided a consultant to assist in drafting a written policy. He then called a general meeting to explain the policy and announce that it would go into effect after a six-week period. The drug testing program would include preemployment screening, random, and for cause testing for drugs and alcohol.

Moland offered his employees a one-time opportunity to enter treatment at Turfscape's expense. He recommended that abusers use this waiting period to clean up or find another job. Over the next six weeks, Moland lost one-third of his work force.

Four years later, Moland says that his policy saves the company more than $50,000 per year-an enormous savings on only $550,000 in annual sales! Productivity is up, and the firm has greater revenues with fewer employees to share the profits. Also, the quality of work has improved, resulting in better customer retention and referrals.

The improved quality of employees has been easier on the equipment. It lasts longer as a result of better care, reducing both maintenance and replacement costs. In fact, in the four years following the initiation of drug testing, Turfscape has had no vehicular accidents. A similar reduction in industrial accidents has netted Turfscape discounted workers' compensation costs. Because of the program's success, Moland was able to negotiate a 10% discount on general liability insurance.

Employee performance has improved as well. Tardiness and absenteeism are no longer a problem, and employee morale and attitude are exceptional.

'If I couldn't have my drug-free workplace program,' says Moland, 'I'd just lock up my doors and go out of business.'

Contact: Jerry C. Moland, General Manager, Turfcare Landscape, Inc. 16804 South 54th Street Chandler, Arizona 85226 (602) 961-3400