As part of Lafarge’s Health and Safety Roadshows, the company’s drug and alcohol policy was launched to outline how it intended to deal with employees working under the influence of alcohol or non-prescribed drugs. Attending work in this condition is strictly prohibited and poses a significant safety risk to both employees and their colleagues.
Testing for alcohol or drug use was conducted when suspicions arose that an employee was under the influence at work. A clear procedure for organising and authorising a test was communicated to managers through the Health and Safety Roadshows.
Tests are conducted by a competent 3rd party organisation on any site. The tests are conducted under strictly controlled conditions within 2 hours of being notified. Following the results, occupational health advisors offer their opinion and suggest appropriate actions to managers.
Although random testing was considered, this was deemed a step too far – although this could be a possibility if the policy is taken further in the future. If an employee admits to a problem, which they want to overcome, Lafarge has agreed to help them become “clean”. |