There are a number of issues employers should consider before introducing drug & alcohol testing into their workplace. First & foremost, an employer must consider if they have a right to drug & alcohol test their workers? HR professionals support businesses.
Drug & Alcohol Testing
Tribunals deem testing a privacy intrusion, permitted only for safety when employees pose risks in high?risk industries.
Once employers establish the right to conduct drug and alcohol testing, they must implement a clear policy that supports the practice and defines the business’s stance on substance use.
This policy should include:
- What substances are prohibited
- If the employer will be carrying out drug and alcohol testing and the process involved
- What happens if a worker is found to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol
In the context of unfair dismissal law, employers should ensure their workers understand the terms of the alcohol and drug policy as well as the consequences of any breaches.
When terminating a worker for drug or alcohol related matters the absence of a drug and alcohol policy can prove to be a costly error if the employer is put in a situation where they need to defend an unfair dismissal claim.
For assistance in developing a drug and alcohol policy for your workplace contact our team for assistance.