Visible signs of short-term and long-term depressant drug use:

• Signs of intoxication:
• Staggering, unsteady walking or standing.
• Inability to concentrate.
• Inability to remember instructions.
• Slurred speech, glassy eyes, flushed face, staggered gait.

• Signs of long-term use:
• Shakiness.
• Significant mood swings.
• Outbursts.

Early identification can be made primarily through emerging or transitory behavior, actions or appearance not readily seen by the casual observer.

The immediate effects of cocaine, heroin, amphetamines and marijuana are often not seen. An employee can have drugs in his or her system while at work and no one may know.

There are patterns of behavior, work, and temperament which often indicate current drug use. These signs or “cues” relate to workplace conditions supervisors can identify.

Understanding these cues can help you tobetter identify the troubled employee.

Unusual changes in these areas may indicate drug use:

Attendance.

• Work performance.
• Appearance and hygiene.
• Safety habits.
• The following are some examples of “cues” that relate to attendance
• Unexcused absences in conjunction with weekend (extending the weekend).
• Absences after paydays and holidays.
• Unexcused or unexplained late arrivals or early departures.
• Lots of “emergencies” which require being away from work “now”.
• Using sick leave quickly; borrowing ahead without explanation.
• Using vacation early; borrowing ahead!
• These “cues” are often associated with drug and alcohol use, however, they may be caused by other factors, but they usually mean that your employee is not performing according to work standards.