Testing reveals depth of drug problem

Fleet operators are being urged to introduce robust drug policies following an alarming study that found 40% of employees tested at one company had been abusing illegal substances or alcohol.

The results of the study have been published in the fleet trade press although the company itself – which operates a fleet of 5,000 vehicles – has remained anonymous.

As part of the study, staff were tested after being involved in a crash or who were suspected of being impaired at work. Of those who failed the test, 95% had been using illegal drugs.

A spokesman for the company is reported as saying that lots of companies have drugs policies in place, but it is testing that makes the difference.

He added it was shock when the company introduced testing because a lot of people, including managers, did not understand the severity of the drug problem in this country.

The company ran a three-month amnesty prior to introducing testing when those with a problem could ask for counselling. Just five employees took up the offer.

Mike Atkins, director of the company’s drug test provider, Grendonstar, said that pre-employment testing prevents the problem coming in.

Atkins added that employees know that if they have an accident they will be tested, the vast majority will change their lifestyle.