Do You Know The Rules About Drugs And Alcohol In The Workplace?

More often than not the misuse of drugs and alcohol are linked to a story about crime or social decline saying that drug use within the teenage and adult community in the UK is increasing, but it is rarely linked to every day working situations.  However, all companies should have a robust policy on drug and alcohol use.  It is an essential health and safety tool. 

The title of the Act controlling drugs – The Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 holds the key to drug and alcohol policies.  Drugs and alcohol can and often do have a serious and sometimes very negative impact on the lives of the individuals concerned and the people around them.  It is the misuse or inappropriate use of drugs and alcohol than can have serious safety consequences in a workplace environment.  In a working environment, particularly in the rail sector, the use of drugs and alcohol can affect colleagues, the public and passengers.

Whilst an employee’s right to a private life is enshrined in law there is a caveat to that.  Where their actions outside the workplace could go on to affect their own safety, that of their colleagues and the general public in the workplace. The employer has a duty of care to protect all those concerned.  Fixed rail employers must also take into account the Transport and Works Act, which mandates them to take reasonable steps to ensure their employees are not under the influence of drugs or alcohol when carrying out their duties.

Scientifics is one of the most experienced accredited companies that work alongside businesses in the rails sector and other industries to ensure they have effective drug and alcohol policies.  We carry out testing, monitoring and analysis of employee’s blood and urine to make certain that they are compliant with the law.  Some of this work is all about educating the individuals about the effects of drugs and alcohol.

Check the links below to understand more about the affects of drugs and alcohol in the work place – you can find out more on www.scientifics/drugsand alcoholdata.com or via www.healthline.com.
 
But make certain you have a policy in your work place and know the rules.  Employers need to educate staff on the issues associated with alcohol and drug use and have procedures in place to care for staff that may have problems.   To misquote Dr. Feelgood – stick to the milk, as drugs and alcohol do not mix in the work place.

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