Post-Accident Drug Testing (PADT) is a tool employers can use to determine the root cause of workplace accident or injury. Know when to use PADT by following the guidelines from Banker’s Insurance below:
- PADT can be used in the case of an accident, with or without an injury associated.
- PADT should be used to determine whether drugs were a factor in an accident. Suppose your employee has operated the same piece of machinery for 20 years and now shows signs of carpal tunnel. Since drug use could not have caused this injury, it would not be appropriate to require a PADT. However, suppose the same employee was suddenly injured on the equipment for not following proper safety procedures. Since impairment could have been a factor, a PADT should be administered to investigate the root cause.
- PADT should be used according to state and federal laws, regulations, or contracts. Some require the use of PADT after an accident.
- PADT should be used if you participate in your state’s drug-free workplace program and you receive the discount on your Worker’s Compensation policy.
To read about the Anti-Retaliation Rules that are now in effect regarding PADT, read our blog.
