Drug And Alcohol Use At Motor
Carriers Pose A Safety And Security Risk

Security risks come in all forms. It can include external threats, such as cargo theft or terrorism, or from internal threats, such as workplace violence or employee theft. Another area that leaves a motor carrier vulnerable is the use and sale of illegal drugs in the workplace or the misuse of alcohol.

Although the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) have requirements for testing those drivers performing safety-sensitive functions, it is important for a carrier to be aware of potential substance abuse problems with its entire staff. An inattentive receptionist, a violent outburst from a dispatcher, or sloppy workmanship from a mechanic could all have origins in substance abuse.
When individuals aren’t performing to their capabilities, they put an organization at risk in both safety and security.

Giving supervisors a knowledge base
Drug use and alcohol misuse is a major safety and security concern for the transportation industry. This is why it is important that your supervisors are properly trained in accordance with §382.603. Operations that do not handle vehicles that place them under Part 382 should still consider training supervisors and managers on the warning signs of substance abuse. Supervisors of non-driving personnel should also be familiar with signs and symptoms and appropriate actions based on labor laws and company policy.

I should’ve seen the warning signs
An employee with a drug or alcohol abuse problem may exhibit the following warning signs:

• Excessive absences and/or tardiness (especially after a weekend or holiday).
  
• Frequent requests for time off.
  
• Numerous accidents without explanation.
  
• Noticeable increase in medical insurance claims, particularly for non-job injuries.
  
• Unsatisfactory work performance.
  
• Non-work-related visits from other employees or strangers.
  
• Secretive behavior, defensive attitude.
  
• Drastic weight changes.
  
• Marked change in mood, attitude and behavior.
  
• Deterioration in personal grooming and hygiene.
  
• Wearing sunglasses and long-sleeved shirts at inappropriate or unusual times to hide dilated pupils or needle marks.
  
• Frequent need to borrow money, or theft from the company.
  
• Avoidance of supervisors.

Physical symptoms of drug and/or alcohol abuse may include:

• Dulled mental processes
  
• Lack of coordination
  
• Odor of alcohol on breath
  
• Possible constricted pupils
  
• Sleepy or stuporous condition
  
• Slowed reaction rate
  
• Slurred speech
  
• Drowsiness
  
• Inability to concentrate
  
• Nausea or other physical symptoms.
  
• Agitation
  
• Dizziness
  
• Dilated pupils
  
• Bloodshot eyes
  
• Runny nose

I’m having a truckload sale!
Drivers who are addicted to alcohol or drugs are more likely to sell part of a shipment or the whole shipment for quick cash, and later say it was stolen. Drivers are approached all of the time by cargo thieves to give up their loads. Many drivers who suffer from substance or alcohol abuse may be just that desperate to fake a robbery or burglary.

Lonnie Johnson
C-DATA Operations Director