By Erin Holladay

The downturn in the economy recently has caused many businesses to be more cautious about whom they hire and trust to do their work. In fact, human resource professionals work carefully to keep costs associated with lack of productivity down as much as possible. Many workplace issues like personal technology use and drug use contribute to millions of dollars lost each year. New technology and other new advancements have made it much simpler for employers to monitor their workers.

When it comes to technological use in the office, employers have many options available to them. Employers can monitor phone calls made from their office, computer and internet use as well as email and voicemail on company machines. In fact, the laws regarding employee privacy are so gray, that its nearly impossible to decipher when an employer oversteps their bounds.

Most employers have a clearly written policy regarding their monitoring policies to avoid any confusion. It seems the only way to avoid monitoring is to use personal mobile devices. Even texting on company phones have been the subject of severe scrutiny in the past.

While the use of technology in the workplace has been screened heavily, so has drug use. Many employers now opt to randomly screen their employees to detect any illegal substances. This is especially the case for any business where heavy machinery or dangerous equipment is used on the premises. In order to curb problems with workplace hazards and absenteeism, employers use drug testing to determine hire eligibility. In addition, many continue to drug screen their workers during their employment tenure.

Employers who do require drug screening enjoy the benefits of reduced employee healthcare costs. Insurance companies will often offer lower premiums for those who test their employees frequently for illegal substance abuse. Currently, employers have the right to require drug tests in many forms, including hair, saliva, blood and urine tests. Every state has unique policies and laws regarding drug testing in the workplace.

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