Drugs, Alcohol and Smoking: Washington

Federal law and guidance on this subject should be reviewed together with this section.

Author: XpertHR Editorial Team

Summary

• Washington employers may implement drug-free workplace policies. See Drugs and Alcohol.
• Washington employers may prohibit marijuana use in the workplace even though medical and recreational use is legal in the state. See Marijuana.
• Employers may implement and enforce policies that prohibit the use, sale, possession, distribution, purchase and cultivation of drugs and alcohol in the workplace. See Drug and Alcohol Policies.
• Employers in Washington are not prohibited from conducting drug and alcohol testing of employees and job applicants, except in the case of preemployment marijuana testing. See Drug and Alcohol Testing.
• Washington prohibits smoking in places of employment and public places. See Smoking.
• An employer must conspicuously post signs prohibiting smoking. See Postings.
• Employers are not required to have a smoking policy but may implement one that prohibits smoking in the workplace. See Smoking Policies.
• King County has requirements pertaining to smoking. See Local Requirements.