We’re currently dealing with the lengthiest health crisis in the history of our country, and it’s never been more challenging to run a business. Companies are having to operate with as few employees as possible, and many are busy playing catch-up dealing with our transition to our “new normal.” Good people are always hard to find, and it’s crucial to learn as much as you can about prospective employees before making your hiring decisions.

The modern workplace often comes with certain hazards, and one of the most important ways to reduce exposure to accidents and other liability is to implement rigorous safety procedures. Unfortunately, recreational drug use is currently as popular as ever. In addition to the obviously increased risk of workplace accidents, illicit drug use can lead to other problems, such as declining productivity, excessive tardiness and absenteeism, and increased turnover. That’s why it is important to institute drug screening procedures. Participation in the Arkansas Voluntary Drug-Free Workplace Program qualifies you for a 5% discount on your workers’ compensation insurance premium. Participation in this program requires a pre-employment drug testing, post-accident drug and alcohol testing, and testing if there is reasonable suspicion of use. Many companies also institute random screenings in an effort to ensure consistent employee compliance.

Physical distribution is important for most commercial and industrial operations. Because of local and over-the-road shipping and delivery, the world has become a much smaller place. It’s important for companies to own and maintain a fleet of quality vehicles, and even more important to hire drivers who will operate them safely. A standard component of hiring commercial drivers is ordering a DOT physical exam along with a drug test to confirm that they are drug free, and that they meet all of the physical requirements to complete the daily responsibilities of the job. Urinalysis is also a standard component of the exams to test for health problems that could affect their abilities to operate a truck or commercial vehicle safely.