Workplace drug & alcohol testing is, for many companies, a contentious issue. Some see it as a method in protecting the safety of their employees, enabling them to carry out their daily duties and tasks in a safe working environment. Others view testing in a more negative manner, arguing that it violates privacy, is expensive and potentially leads to unfair dismissal.

In 2016/17, around 1 in 12 (8.5%) adults aged 16 to 59 in England and Wales had taken an illicit drug in the last year (NHS, 2018). Furthermore, in 2017 there were 7,697 alcohol-specific deaths in the UK. Alcohol-specific deaths have increased in recent years to similar rates observed in 2008 when they were at the highest recorded (ONS, 2017).

Below we highlight the various benefits that a workplace drug & alcohol testing programme can bring to a company, and how our range of products and services can have a positive impact on your business.

Drug & alcohol testing promotes a safer working environment byeliminating the possibility of having a fatal accident, especially those who are operating in safety-critical roles e.g. heavy machinery.

It reduces potential legal liability, as it is the responsibility of any employer to keep their employee’s safe while present in the workplace. Any accidents that occur whilst on company premises puts the employer in a position of responsibility, especially if preventive measures have not been put in place.

Workplace drug testing helps employees with drug problems through schemes such as an Employer Assistance Programme, whereby the employer helps employees who have been tested positive for drugs to partake in structured rehabilitation programmes. Employers allow these employees to become drug-free and forge a greater working relationship as they move forward.

Highlights dangers of drugs & alcohol in the workplace by having an effective drug and alcohol policy in place, a company can implement workshops and seminars for employees about the dangers of substance misuse to make them more aware of the dangers.

The importance of pre-employment testing can act as a deterrent to drug & alcohol misuse, since it is able to screen drug users before they are employed.

How Randox Testing Services can help

At Randox Testing Services we possess a wealth of experience and knowledge that enables us to offer holistic packages to meet the needs of the customer, regardless of their location or industry. This knowledge comes from over 35 years of testing experience in the diagnostics industry and through our involvement with bodies that help shape testing legislation.

We pride ourselves on helping our customers improve the health and safety of their working environment through helping them implement a comprehensive substance misuse policy. As mentioned above, having a clear and effective policy outlining what the drug & alcohol testing will involve is the first step to ensuring full co-operation and understanding of employees.

Our expertise within drug & alcohol testing allows us to craft customised packages to meet the drug and alcohol testing needs of any workplace. Our methods are flexible to adapt to any changes and our testing processes are accurate, to guarantee reliable results.

For more information about our range of drug & alcohol testing products, our expertise in this industry and our array of support services, visit www.randoxtestingservices.com.

If you would like to speak with one of our experts, use any of the following methods:

Email: testingservices@randox.com

Phone: +44 (0) 28 9445 1011