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#1 Posted : 15 August 2007 17:30:00(UTC)
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Posted By montrey
Anyone got any suggestions regarding implementing a drugs and alcohol policy at a company? I would be interested to hear your suggestions.

Sensible answers please - I am already anticipating the response
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#2 Posted : 15 August 2007 19:19:00(UTC)
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Posted By CFT
Montrey

Create such a policy as you suggest, ensure all are aware of it and introduce protective measures to ensure it's success and you have a solution.

I did this some 3 years ago throughout the Group where I am employed; we have of course a zero tolerance and no reportable cases since that time. regular meetings and awareness of this problem utilising the services of specialist lecturers on said subject has secured success throughout.

6000 staff and no cases, is proof it can work.

Good luck

CFT
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#3 Posted : 15 August 2007 20:22:00(UTC)
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Posted By Merv Newman
Management/company reactions should be geared to detection AND rehabilitation.

Detection/suspicion is not too difficult with appropriate management training. Confirmation is much more difficult. You may, by contract of employment, be able to require blood/breath samples but you have absolutely no rights to know the results. Medical confidentiality.

Any doctor that comes back and tells you that "that guy is really on the heavy stuff" is breaching his oath to "do no harm".

My old company policy was to contribute 100% to the first rehab programme. Second time it was shared 50/50 with the employee. (it has to hurt)

After that, you are on your own and we are waiting for a sack-able situation.

My only real life situation was a pretty good employee who drank too much at lunchtime. Supervisor suggested that he should take a time-out so he demanded a breathalyser to prove he was ok. First one went a deep emerald green so he asked for a second.

Finally got sacked for thumping out the supervisor.

Much, much later the doctor who had taken a "confidential" blood sample indicated that the employee was really wheee.

Merv
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#4 Posted : 16 August 2007 10:04:00(UTC)
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Posted By Bob Shillabeer
This is an area of some confusion, but it is really quite simple. Get the Unions if any exist in your workplace onboard first. Make sure everyione knows the outcome potential before you introduce the policy and get well established procedures and consequences in place. Make sure every employee knows exactly what is expected and how the process will be applied.

The rail industry has been applying a D&A policy for years, with I add full support of the trades unions. This policy is available from the RSSB website and from various train operating companies. Well worth looking at.
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#5 Posted : 16 August 2007 10:20:00(UTC)
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Posted By Sally
First thing to look at is why you feel a D&A policy is necessary? Is it high risk work, do you have a known problem etc. Then ask yourself if these can be dealt with through other exsisting policies

D&A policies can be a two edged sword and can restrict employeers from taking action against employees because you have committed to rehabilitation etc. They can also be very useful. Your local health board can probably help as well
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#6 Posted : 16 August 2007 10:47:00(UTC)
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Posted By Roger Uncles
I have e-mailed you direct.
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