Workplace testing for drugs and alcohol
What you need to consider if you plan to test for drugs or alcohol in the workplace.
Drugs and alcohol testing is a sensitive issue. If this is to form part of your policy, it is essential that employees and the workforce are consulted.
Workforce consultation
A workforce consultation is needed because of the practical, legal, and ethical issues involved. It can also provide valuable insight into how the policy can be implemented successfully.
Limitations of drugs and alcohol testing
The limitations of drug and alcohol testing are that it can't:
- measure to what extent an employee's performance is impaired by a substance
- the exact time when the drug was used
- in some cases, tell which substance was used
Case law under the Human Rights Act is emerging in this area. You should therefore get legal advice and the views of the before starting any testing.
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