Public Safety and Drug Testing

My interest was aroused as I read Prof. Alan Dershowitz’s column on required drug screening (Op-Ed Page, March 14). I agree that random mandatory screening for workers in all occupations will impose limitations and restrictions on our liberties, and rushing to do so may be unwise. The professor mentions certain occupations, such as airline pilot or train engineer, for which drug screening may be reasonable because the public places their lives in the hands of people who fill these jobs. And there could be little argument with this point. But I am uncomfortable with his idea that with most occupations there is little or no risk to public safety, and therefore drug screening is unnecessary.

For example, Dershowitz questions whether flight attendants should be included as a group for random drug screening because they are mainly concerned with passenger service. But in times of emergency, flight attendants are responsible for directing passengers in lifesaving moves. There is a risk if medical professionals, working at almost any level, are drug users. There is a risk if the driver of the 18-wheeler on the freeway is impaired.

I have been through a drug-screening test, and it isn’t a pleasant experience. I truly wish it were unnecessary for any occupation. But perhaps it is now the price to be paid because some people choose not to live responsibly, and their behavior can indeed be a risk to the rest of us.

CAROL BENFORD

Redondo Beach