Posted By Chris Rowley
I work in an establishment that has a high percentage of trainees that are taking Methadone as part of their drug rehabilitation.
These trainees are being employed in several trade groups including, Joinery, Bricklaying, General engineering, Plastering and Plumbing. They use all the tools and machinery associated with these trades.
My concern is the effect methadone has on a person and if these people can be classed as capable of working safely within a workshop environment.
As this is a new subject for me I would be very greatful if anyone could provide any information or references that may assist me in determining the effects of methadone and the ability of the user to work safely while under the influence.

Cheers

Chris

Posted By Jim O'Dwyer
Hi Chris,

I suggest you contact DrugScope.

DrugScope is the UK's leading independent centre of expertise on drugs and provides information on a wide range of drug related topics

Tel: 020 7928 1211

http://www.drugscope.org.uk/


You may also like to read the results of HSE funded research to determine the extent and impact of drug use on the functioning of the workplace. The work was undertaken by the Centre for Occupational and Health Psychology at Cardiff University. In addition to establishing the prevalence of illegal drug use, the study aimed to provide a detailed profile of current and potential users, explore the effects of illegal drugs taken out of working hours on the work performance of people who continue to work within the next day, or 2-3 days, and to uncover any possible consequent association between illegal drug use and workplace accidents, injuries and human error. The results show that recreational drug use reduces performance efficiency and safety at work.

To read the (150+ pages) study: Click the link below

http://www.hse.gov.uk/research/rrpdf/rr193.pdf

Best wishes,

Jim O'Dwyer