The Case for a Drug- and Alcohol-Free Workplace in Construction

The Case for a Drug- and Alcohol-Free Workplace in Construction

Safety is the cornerstone of every successful construction project. A single lapse in judgment, slow reaction times, or impaired coordination can lead to serious injuries or even fatalities. Unfortunately, substance abuse—whether due to alcohol, illegal drugs, or even legal substances like marijuana—continues to be a significant risk factor in the construction industry.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), impairment from substances like marijuana and alcohol increases the risk of accidents, absenteeism, and reduced productivity—placing both workers and companies at risk. The National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information (NCADI) reports that substance user

• Take more sick days than non-users.
• Are less productive on the job.
• Are significantly more likely to cause accidents that can lead to injuries or fatalities.

While marijuana has been legalized in many states, its use is not risk-free in the construction industry. Studies show that marijuana can impair motor skills, reduce concentration, and slow reaction time—factors that are critical in high-risk environments like construction sites. A study from the National Safety Council (NSC) found that individuals who use marijuana:

• Are 55% more likely to experience workplace injuries.
• Exhibit poor short-term memory and decision-making, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Have lower productivity and higher absenteeism than non-users.

In an industry where split-second decisions and sharp focus can mean the difference between life and death, any impairment—whether from alcohol, illegal drugs, or legal substances—puts everyone at risk.

Why ABC Supports a Drug- and Alcohol-Free Workplace

Recognizing these risks, Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc. (ABC) has partnered with the Construction Coalition for a Drug- and Alcohol-Free Workplace (CCDAFW) to provide resources and support for companies implementing strong workplace substance abuse policies. The coalition’s mission is clear:

• Establish industry-wide recognition of substance abuse dangers.
• Advocate for strong workplace policies that reduce the risk of substance-related incidents.
• Provide best practices and resources to help companies maintain a drug- and alcohol-free workplace.

Take the Pledge: Protect Your Workers, Business, and Industry

We urge all ABC Heart of America members to take a stand for safety by signing the Drug- and Alcohol-Free Workplace Pledge. By signing this pledge, your company joins over 14,000 industry leaders committed to eliminating substance abuse-related injuries and fatalities on construction sites.

Take the pledge today and help make construction sites safer for everyone:

https://www.drugfreeconstruction.org