An investigation of substance abuse in the American construction industry

This final project is a series of three related papers investigating issues which relate to substance abuse within the American construction industry.;The first paper will detail the history of substance abuse beginning when the problem involved the use and abuse of alcohol. This paper will disclose that substance abuse is a National problem that hits the construction industry particularly hard. I shall explain how substance abuse was handled and treated in the past and then introduce and explain procedures and treatment options being offered today. Drug testing will be explained including the substances being screened and their properties.;The second paper will discuss the history and structure of assistance programs along with the options offered by EAP's today. A cost/benefit analysis will be included to assist in drawing conclusions as to why companies should establish such programs, and show that organizations that have establishd employee assistance programs will bring about positive change in the business world. As the business world is affected by outside forces, organizations must also change the structure of their programs to allow modification to concomitant changes in both business policy and labor law. An example of a recently established quality program will be included.;The position paper will make recommendations based on the analyses incorporated in each paper and an investigation of the different management theories pertinent to the operation of employee assistance programs along with the pros and cons for establishing and funding these programs. I will support the position that assistance programs are beneficial and cost effective for organizations to establish and maintain in order to have healthy, productive employees.