Survey: 1 in 10 American Workers Show Up to Work High

According to a survey released Mashable and reported on by CNBC, indicates that 1 in 10 Americans show up to work under the influence of marijuana. What’s worse, nearly 82% of those who answered in the affirmative confirmed that they receive their marijuana illegally, which, if you reside in the state of New Jersey, includes just about every method of obtaining the drug, unless you have a medical marijuana license.

With the legalization of marijuana in Colorado and Washington, we are seeing an uptick in positive tests, according to Quest Diagnostics, and lowered perception of the risk of the drug. Lowered risk perception means that more people are inclined to try it. As an employer, this is a very disturbing thought. Regardless of where you fall on the issue of marijuana legalization, one must recognize the facts. Marijuana has been associated with depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and lack of motivation, but most importantly, it can cause a decrease in reaction time and inability to use sound judgement.

As employers, you need to be aware of these possible side effects that marijuana use has on an individual and how it may affect their job performance.

Let this study be a wake up call to businesses across New Jersey to reevaluate their drug free workplace policies. If you don’t have one, the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey offers the “Drugs Don’t Work in New Jersey” program, which helps business establish drug-free workplaces. A drug-free workplace is an effective and safe workplace.

To register for Drugs Don't Work in New Jersey, please visit the website and please pass this information to owners and managers of small businesses that you know.

Blog Updates

Enter your email address and we'll send you an email each time we post something new.