News Release Ohio Department of Administrative Services Bob Taft, Governor  C. Scott Johnson, Director FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Wednesday, October 2, 2002 New Drug-Free Workplace Regulations Highlight “How To Do Business With the State of Ohio” Seminar (Columbus)-- Members of the design and construction industry were briefed today on new drug-free workplace regulations on state construction projects. The information was presented during a seminar conducted by the State Architect’s Office for companies interested in doing construction contracting with the State of Ohio. “We felt it was important to help spread the word on the latest steps to implement a stronger drug-free policy on state construction projects,” said State Architect Roger Booker. The policy was implemented last month under an Executive Order signed by Governor Bob Taft. Contractors and subcontractors will be required to enroll in a Drug-Free Workplace Program that is approved by the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation. New standards will be phased in to allow contractors time to comply by July 1, 2003. As of January 1, 2003, contractors may submit bids without previously being enrolled in an approved drug –free workplace program. However, they must enroll in a program certified by the Ohio Bureau of Workers Compensation within ten days of the bid opening. The Bureau, the Ohio Department of Administrative Services, and the Ohio Department of Transportation have joined together with key industry organizations in creating the policy. Employers can learn more about the policy at upcoming seminars scheduled Oct. 9 in Cincinnati, Oct. 30 in Cleveland, and Nov. 7 in Columbus. National statistics trace 33 percent of workplace deaths to some form of drug or alcohol use. A recent Cornell University study of drug use in the construction industry found companies reduced workplace injuries 51 percent within two years of implementing a drug screening policy. Injuries dropped 14 percent at companies without a drug screening policy in the same period. -30- For further information, contact Ben Piscitelli or Gretchen Hull at 614-752-9521. [ Administrative Support | Communications | Employee Services ] [ Finance | Legal Counsel | Legislative Affairs | MIS ] Site Map | Search | DAS Home Page | State Home Page | Contact DAS