Pubdate: Sat, 29 Apr 2000
Source: Minneapolis Star-Tribune (MN)
Copyright: 2000 Star Tribune
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Author: Associated Press

DRUG TESTING STARTS IN CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

MILWAUKEE (AP) -- A random drug testing program is underway for thousands 
of construction trade workers in southeastern Wisconsin.

The drug testing plan, billed as a national prototype, covers 7, 500 
construction trades workers, and an undisclosed number of non-union office 
workers, at companies in Washington, Ozaukee, Waukesha and Milwaukee counties.

About 30 union carpenters and at least one non-union manager participated 
in the first test last week after they were selected at random by computer. 
They are notified through their employers and given a few hours to report 
for testing.

"Everybody who was supposed to be there was there, and it went smoothly, " 
said Ed Hayden, executive vice president of the Allied Construction 
Employers Association in Brookfield.

The union-management agreement calls for urine, blood and breath tests for 
alcohol, marijuana, cocaine and other drugs. Results of the testing, done 
by a Pewaukee lab, are confidential.

Workers who test positive are guaranteed 30 days of unpaid leave for 
substance-abuse treatment and can return to work if they pass a new test.

Those employees who decline treatment may be suspended or fired.
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MAP posted-by: Jo-D