I'm in a tight spot here. I've been sick as a dog, coughing so hard that it's strained my back. Last night while breaking down pallets I managed to make it so much worse. I've hurt my back before at home and had to miss a week of work. Now I've been told I'm in for a drug test and may have to be let go for missing too much work (despite doctor's notes). Is the drug test really necessary lol? I mean it sounds like they're trying to get rid of me in one of two ways. The pain is so bad that there's no way I'm going to be able to unload the truck tonight.
I agree, it sounds like they're looking to find a way to fire you. If you're on any medication, keep copies of your prescription on you for now. I doubt they can fire you for missing work with doctors notes, but unless you got originally hurt at work, they can make you take a leave.
Why wouldn't they hire someone who is healthy, in good physical condition, and ready to work instead? Of course they want to sack you.The last thing any store wants is an employee who can't show up, can't work when they show up, and most of all gets injured while on the job and needs more time off. Of course they have to drug test, it's a liability policy in case you try and claim workers comp. Kroger, and any other employer avoid hiring people like you.
If you're really in that bad of over-all shape you should file for at least partial disability if you wanna still work at least part time (and you should want to) or the full ticket if you don't wanna work at all. Either way, your co workers will at least know where things stand and not be counting on you to pull your weight.
Did you let them know of your back condition when you were hired, or is this something that happened after you were hired? If it was before you were hired, you should have put it on your application. Most companies ask if you are capable of the duties for the job with reasonable accommodations on the job application.
