NORWICH – A discussion on substance use and abuse in the workplace, the epidemic's impact and the responsibility of employers will take place on Thursday, January 31 at the Canasawacta Country Club.

Organized by Chenango Health Network, Commerce Chenango, and UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital, the discussion will include featured speaker Dawn J. Lanouette, Esq., SHRM-SCP of Hinman, Howard & Kattell, LLP, and a five person panel comprised of professionals in fields related to drug abuse and health services. Commerce Chenango President and CEO Steve Craig will moderate the panel.

The discussion will serve to understand drug abuse and related harms, identify harmful effects of substance abuse in the workplace, recognize signs of an abuse probe, enforce requirements of policy and the law, and take effective steps to assist employees in getting help while protecting other workers and the organization.