Monday, March 17, 2008

Response to Maria Tonti's email

Re: Drug Testing in the Workplace

Maria, I think your suggestion that LifeSystems inc. should implement a random drug testing policy is long overdue. Obviously, the long term success and profitability of the company are very important, but the lives of the patients who depend on our products is paramount. Because of the type of business that we are in, we are morally obligated to do everything we can to ensure the reliability of the medical equipment we produce. In turn, any improvements we can make in this regard will only add to our profitability and long term success. Studies have shown that those who habitually use drugs have diminished motor skills. By weeding out such employees, we'll be able to increase productivity throughout the company, hence increasing profits. We would also decrease our liability in the event something goes wrong with one of our machines because we'll be able to demonstrate the extensive steps we've taken to ensure the effectiveness of our equipment. Furthermore, the overall health of employees in the workplace would be improved not only because those who are found to be using drugs would lose their jobs, but also because a mandatory drug testing policy would deter employees from using drugs for fear of losing their jobs. You may receive responses to your email expressing concerns over employee privacy. However, I cannot stress enough how serious the business is that we are in. The lives of the people our products save far outweigh any privacy concerns. Critics of the drug testing policy will likely argue that such a policy would decrease employee morale, but I don't believe this to be the case. Everyone at Lifesytems benefits from a healthy and safe working environment. These are goals that should be shared by all. Additionally, increases in Lifesystem's profitability trickles down to the employees in the form of raoses, increased benefits and bonuses. You have my full support!

Justin Wales

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