Industry Source Says Drug Testing Gaining Acceptance

The rumblings of discontent from offices, terminals and unions when the federal Department of Transportation implemented drug testing regulations for all employees in safety-related roles have quieted down, according to National MRO, a firm which deals in compliance and voluntary drug testing programs for industry. The firm also said that what seemed to many to be a major threat to privacy a few years back has given way to a realization of a marked benefit for those marine companies who advertise "We Drug Test" and "This Is A Drug-Free Workplace." According to Dr. Michael I. Ruxin, National MRO president, the benefits projected for quality drug testing programs are as demonstrated: higher morale, greater trust, fewer accidents and thefts, increased production, fewer claims and finally the potential for decreased premiums for liability insurance coverage, especially workmen's compensation. National MRO's exceptional growth, according to Dr. Ruxin, was the result of an early decision on quality that has paid off — National MRO clients have remained litigation-free. National MRO has sites in all 50 states plus four hundred overseas areas. Client company sizes range from petroleum and shipping companies to small operators with just one covered employee. As National MRO sees it, the latest issue is whether the law should now treat alcohol as it would other drugs of abuse. Occasions when alcohol testing can be required are pre-employment, random selection, for cause, and serious accidents.

Gas and oil pipeline companies and the maritime industry are so far excepted, the former by omission in the law, and the latter by determination of the Coast Guard Commandant. For more information on National MRO, Circle 94 on Reader Service Card