Collection: Drug and Alcohol Testing for Workplaces

Workplace drug and alcohol testing is becoming increasingly common due to the rising rates of substance abuse in the workplace. In Australia, abuse of illegal drugs such as ICE and synthetic drugs such as synthetic marijuana have been on the rise, even in the white collar industry.

Although corporate workplaces are not regulated by occupational health and safety (OHS) legislations, a drug and alcohol policy can help maintain a safe workplace if an employee is found or suspected of being under the influence. Under the OHS act, employers have a legal obligation to address alcohol and other drug issues in the workplace through the ‘duty of care’ provisions. These provisions require employers to take all reasonable steps to ensure the health and safety of all workers and any other people who may be affected by the actions of the employer, such as contractors or clients.

However, employers must have a proper drug and alcohol policy in place prior to introducing testing. Additionally, employers should ensure that employees are educated on the terms of the company's policies and procedures and are aware that testing will take place. If you are unsure of how to begin, Andatech can help you with policy making and test implementation. Just contact us for a zero obligation consultation.

The effects of both alcohol and illicit drug use during and outside of work hours can have a significant negative impact on workplace health, safety and productivity. According to the Australian Drug Foundation (ADF), alcohol and drug use cost Australian businesses $5.2 billion a year in hidden lost productivity and absenteeism.

In safety-critical industries such as manufacturing, farming, transportation or aviation, a drug and alcohol testing policy is crucial to ensure the safety of everyone in the workplace and compliance with OHS regulations.

Andatech's range of workplace breathalyzers and drug testing kits are a great way to start and maintain an efficient drug and alcohol testing policy. Our products and services are catered to both small and large businesses, and our online systems and services make ordering, calibration management and servicing your alcohol and drug testing equipment efficient and hassle-free.

Talk to our sales team today to learn more.

A drug and alcohol testing program is mandatory in the aviation industry under the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations act. All employees, including contractors, sub-contractors and volunteers who perform safety sensitive aviation activities (SSAAs) must be tested before employment, upon suspicion, when returning to work, and after any incident. While testing is not mandatory in other transport and logistics industries, many now implement a testing policy as best practice to maintain safety and act as a deterrent in the workplace.

For companies just starting out with a testing policy or wanting to maintain their program, Andatech offers a range of breath alcohol test equipment and drug test kits that are easy to use and Australian Standards compliant. Our drug screening tests offer fast results, simple and hygienic specimen collection and are available in both urine and oral fluid test kit options.

Additionally, we offer free consultation and a range of services to complement our products. This includes breathalyzer training, rental, and services for on-site alcohol and drug testing Australia wide, starting from as little as 1 employee per year. Contact us today to find out more on how Andatech can help your company with your drug and alcohol testing policy and management.