PUTNAM COUNTY WILL BEGIN DRUG TESTING EMPLOYEES

Putnam Is Expected to Be the First County to Do So but the Practice
May Soon Become a Common One Across County Lines.

WINFIELD -- Putnam County employees are about to be held accountable
for their off-the job behavior. Random drug testing will begin in
January for those holding safety-sensitive positions.

"Would you want someone showing up, like me in my position,
answering a call under the influence of a narcotic?" asked Putnam
County Sheriff's Deputy Chas Ashley. "I just think it'll hold
everyone accountable for their actions."

Come January, the Putnam County administrator says all deputies,
security staff, emergency medical personnel and employees who drive
on the job are subject to random drug testing. Sheriff Mark Smith
plans to volunteer.

"I have no reason to believe that we have any problem whatsoever,"
said Smith. "It is just a safe guard to assure that's not going to happen."

Putnam County may not be the only one testing its employees. Kanawha
County is looking at adopting a similar policy.

"Unfortunately when you look at any population, you find individuals
that become impaired," said Kanawha County Commission President Kent
Carper, "It is just the way things are, just statistically that happens."

While Kanawha County is far from action, Putnam County will test
three to five employees each month.

A positive result means termination, but if an employee comes
forward, at least 48 hours before testing, their job is saved and
the employee receives treatment.

All Putnam County job applicants will be subject to testing. An
employee can also be tested if there is suspicion of drug use. Costs
are estimated at $16,000 annually.

Kanawha County commissioners will discuss the measure at their next meeting.