Can an employer fire you if you tell them you have a drug problem?

In the US, your employer can discipline or fire you if your alcohol or drug use impairs your ability to do your job. However, employers cannot discipline or fire you simply because you tell them you have a substance problem.

Should you tell your employer you are an alcoholic?

According to the law, employers who meet certain conditions must make accommodations for those entering rehab and hold your position for you. By law, employers must maintain confidentiality regarding any information they receive regarding the addiction or substance abuse treatment of any of their employees.

Can an employer fire you for being an alcoholic?

While employers are free to terminate and can refuse to hire anyone whose alcohol or drug use impairs their ability to perform the duties of their job, employers cannot fire or take other negative employment actions against an employee because of their status as an alcoholic or drug addict. California and federal laws …

What do you do if you suspect drug use at work?

If the drug or alcohol test results are negative, contact the employee and return them to their prior job as soon as possible. If it is positive, you have the option of sending them for counseling or treatment and returning to work.

Is it illegal to fire a drug addict?

Addiction is considered to be a disability and, as such, an employee cannot be fired for being addicted to substances such as drugs or alcohol. In fact, employers are required to accommodate employees who suffer from addiction to the point of undue hardship.

Is alcoholism considered a medical condition?

Alcoholism is a chronic disease that gets worse over time. Like many chronic diseases, it can be diagnosed and treated but not cured, and carries a risk of relapse.

How are drugs and alcohol treated in the workplace?

While the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations say employers should conduct risk assessments. This would include the use or presence of drugs and alcohol at work, if there appears to be a risk to workers. The main causes must then be treated in the same way as any other workplace hazard by the implementation of preventive measures.

Who is responsible for drug and alcohol monitoring at work?

The employee agrees that any costs for treatment and monitoring that are not covered by the employer’s insurance plan are the responsibility of the employee.

How does TUC deal with alcohol and drugs in the workplace?

This guidance is intended to assist workplace reps in developing policies to deal with alcohol and drug problems in the workplace. The issue of drug testing is dealt with in separate TUC guidance.

What kind of Rehab is there for drug and alcohol abuse?

Otherwise referred to as residential rehab, inpatient treatment will put you in an environment where you are away from the sources, causes, and motivations of drug and alcohol abuse. In the treatment facility, you will receive round the clock care from qualified staff and personnel.