Drug testing is only one component of a comprehensive drug free workplace program, which also includes a written policy that clearly outlines employer expectations regarding drug use; training for supervisors on the signs and symptoms of drug use and their role in enforcing the policy; education for employees about the dangers of drug use; and an employee assistance program to provide counseling and referral to employees struggling with drug problems.

The primary reason for conducting workplace drug and alcohol testing for jobs that are safety sensitive should be to measure impairment, as opposed to deterring drug or alcohol use, or monitoring moral values among employees.

Organizational, personal and social factors can all play a role in why a person may choose to use a substance. In general, however, work related factors can include high stress, low job satisfaction, long hours or irregular shifts, fatigue, isolation, lack of or irregular supervision.

Maintaining the highest level of safety, productivity and morale benefits both employers and the employees. The Drug & Alcohol Testing Association of Canada (DATAC) has established testing standards for the collection, processing and handling of specimens, as well as record keeping. DATAC works with service providers and laboratories to standardize certification and accreditation within the drug and alcohol testing industry. Employers and employees share the same goal of having a working environment that is safe. Drug testing supports a safer and more productive workplace and that is the kind of workplace in which people want to work.