By Larry Earl, MD, President, National Association of Occupational Health Professionals
As the president of the National Association of Occupational Health Professionals (NAOHP), I am very excited to announce our collaboration with NDASA! Please do not hesitate to call on me for further information about this effort or any assistance we can provide your occupational health program.
In a groundbreaking move to enhance workplace safety and employee health standards, NDASA and NAOHP have formed a strategic collaboration that aims to leverage each organization’s expertise to offer unmatched resources, education, and advocacy for their members. Here is a look at some of the motivations behind our collaboration, benefits for members of both organizations, and key initiatives that will drive our partnership forward.
How NDASA and NAOHP are aligned
NDASA was established to enhance workplace safety and health through comprehensive drug and alcohol screening policies. Since its inception, the association has united professionals passionate about effective testing by providing education, training, and advocacy to ensure the integrity and productivity of workplaces. By shaping impactful policies and offering extensive resources, NDASA has become a premier organization dedicated to safeguarding environments from substance abuse risks, ultimately fostering safer and more reliable workspaces across diverse industries.
NAOHP was founded to advance the field of occupational health through comprehensive education, certification, and advocacy. Dedicated to promoting the well-being of employees and the effectiveness of occupational health professionals, NAOHP provides critical resources and support. By offering cutting-edge training, fostering professional development, and influencing health policy, NAOHP has positioned itself as a leading organization committed to enhancing workplace health and safety across various sectors. Through its efforts, NAOHP aims to create healthier, more resilient work environments that benefit both employees and employers.
Purpose of the partnership
The primary motivation behind the collaboration between NDASA and NAOHP is to enhance workforce safety and health by leveraging the complementary strengths of both organizations. By uniting their expertise, NDASA and NAOHP aim to offer a holistic approach to workplace safety that integrates comprehensive drug and alcohol screening with advanced occupational health practices. This partnership is driven by shared goals that include improving educational resources, expanding professional development opportunities, and bolstering advocacy efforts to influence health and safety policies. Together, NDASA and NAOHP are committed to creating safer, healthier, and more productive work environments for employees across various industries.
Motivation for the partnership
- Complementary strengths:
- NDASA’s expertise in drug and alcohol screening complements NAOHP’s focus on overall occupational health.
- Combining forces offers a holistic approach to workplace safety and wellness.
- Expanding resources and education:
- Development of joint educational programs and resources to benefit both memberships.
- Access to a broader range of expertise and best practices from both organizations.
- Enhanced advocacy and policy influence:
- Unified voice in advocating for policies that support workplace health and safety.
- Greater influence in regulatory environments affecting drug screening and occupational health practices.
Benefits for NDASA and NAOHP members
- Enhanced educational opportunities:
- Webinars and Workshops: Co-hosted events on emerging trends and best practices in workplace safety and health.
- Certifications: Introduction of new certification programs combining the strengths of both organizations.
- Broadened networking opportunities:
- Joint conferences: Opportunities for members to network, share knowledge, and form collaborations.
- Member directories: Access to a wider network of professionals in related fields.
- Shared resources and tools:
- Toolkits and templates: Development of comprehensive toolkits addressing both drug screening and occupational health.
- Resource libraries: Expanded libraries with materials from both NDASA and NAOHP.
- Advocacy and policy support:
- Unified advocacy efforts: Stronger representation in legislative matters affecting workplace safety and health.
- Policy updates: Timely updates on relevant legislative changes and advocacy efforts.
Key Initiatives
- Joint research projects:
- Launch of studies exploring the impact of integrated workplace safety and health policies.
- Publication of white papers and research findings to inform best practices and policy decisions.
- Annual joint conferences:
- Establishment of an annual event dedicated to exploring the intersection of drug and alcohol screening and occupational health.
- Presentation of case studies, success stories, and innovative solutions from across both memberships.
- Member exchange programs:
- Opportunities for cross-training and shadowing between professionals from both organizations.
- Collaboration on pilot projects and initiatives in real-world settings.
The partnership between NDASA and NAOHP marks a significant step forward in promoting safer, healthier workplaces. By combining resources, expertise, and advocacy efforts, this collaboration promises to deliver unparalleled benefits to members and set new standards for workplace safety and health practices.
NDASA Member Offers
We encourage members of both NDASA and NAOHP to engage with the new initiatives, participate in joint events, and take full advantage of the expanded resources and opportunities resulting from this strategic collaboration.
To kick this off, NAOHP is offering a $100 discount to NDASA members to attend its annual conference in Milwaukee, Oct. 20 – 22. (Use the discount code NDASAConf100 when registering for the conference.) Through July, NAOHP also is offering NDASA members a discount to join NAOHP. That discount coupon is available here.
Special acknowledgment
NDASA and NAOHP extend a special thank you to Tina Wagner, an advisory board member of NAOHP and a prominent member of NDASA. Tina’s efforts and dedication were instrumental in facilitating the discussions that led to this exciting collaboration. Her vision and commitment to advancing workplace safety and health have truly made this partnership possible.