Drug amnesties on the cards

Workplace drink and drugs amnesties are likely to become routine because of the UK’s substance abuse culture, according to Eurofins Workplace Drug Testing.

An increasing number of employers are implementing drug and alcohol testing policies to keep staff safe and allay fears of accidents, the company said. This is usually preceded by an amnesty, allowing staff with dependencies time to address their problem ahead of being screened for the presence of drugs or alcohol.

Gary McCutcheon, Eurofins commercial manager for workplace drug testing, said: “Gone are the days when employers could turn a blind eye to drug and alcohol abuse. The drivers for this are more rigorous regulations including the Corporate Manslaughter Act, and a greater emphasis on health and safety in the workplace.”