When creating a drug-free workplace policy, what term should be avoided?

• A. Under the influence
• B. Impaired
• C. Intoxicated
• D. Imbibed

Answer: (A)

In writing a drug-free workplace policy, you want language that is clear, enforceable, and tied to safety. The phrase under the influence is best avoided because it’s vague and highly subjective. What counts as “under the influence” can vary from observer to observer, leading to inconsistent enforcement and potential disputes. It also lacks a concrete threshold or objective criteria, which makes it hard to document and justify actions like testing or removal from duty.

The other terms are more usable in policy language. Imbibed is an old-fashioned, rarely used word that can confuse readers. Intoxicated conveys a state tied to substance use, often with a clearer implication for safety, but still depends on context. Impaired is commonly accepted in safety and HR policies because it directly describes a reduced ability to perform job duties and can be linked to observable performance or impairment tests.

So, avoid using under the influence, and frame policy language around objective impairment criteria (for example, “impaired by alcohol or drugs and unfit to perform job duties safely”), supported by clear procedures for assessment and testing.