#PrescriptionOnTheJob: Can your employer restrict you from taking pain meds on the clock?
Hey everyone! I recently broke a bone and was prescribed low dose Vicodin for the pain. My manager says I can’t take it at work because it’s an opioid. But the acetaminophen I’m on isn’t cutting it 😩. Can they really stop me from taking my prescribed meds? Here’s what I’m wondering:
– Can my employer legally prevent me from taking my pain meds at work?
– If I’m not impaired at my desk job, should I be allowed to take it?
– Could they accuse me of taking it during my shift if I have it in my system?
I’m planning to reach out to my provider for a note. Any other advice or thoughts? Let’s discuss! 💬 #PolicyOnPrescriptions #EmployerRights #EmployeeHealth.
This is something you need to discuss with HR.
Umm, if it is workman’s comp and they won’t let you take your meds at work, then they need to send you home and have workman’s comp pay your wages.
If this is a BWC injury and you’re having issues being accommodated at work, you need to talk to your physician of record. They may need to take you on light duty or off completely which could mean FMLA or short term LOA depending on how your PTO and personal finance situation works.
They have every right to tell you they don’t want you taking opioids on the clock on their premises. You have every right to say that you need it and otherwise cannot be at work.
Your main focus should be on the Americans with Disabilities Act. If there is a policy or practice that prohibits you from using medically necessary medication, you can request a modification of that policy as a reasonable accommodation. You will be entitled to that accommodation as long as it doesn’t threaten safety or impose an undue hardship on your employer.
Here is great EEOC guidance on the ADA and the use of opioids. https://www.eeoc.gov/laws/guidance/use-codeine-oxycodone-and-other-opioids-information-employees.