One of the biggest areas for concern is that of illicit drug or alcohol use amongst employees of businesses providing transportation services. Legislation such as the Road Traffic Act 1988 sets out the offence of driving or attempting to drive whilst unfit through drink or drugs whilst employers may be liable to prosecution under the Transport and Works Act 1992 unless they can show “all due diligence” in preventing employees in certain specified jobs undertaking tasks whilst under the influence of drink or drugs.
Unfortunately the majority of people with drink problems are in employment whilst 25% of those seeking assistance with their drug problems are also in work. For many people the use of drink or drugs amongst those whose use has become problematic is often perceived by them to be “functional” in that it allows them to simply operate. This is particularly common amongst users of stimulant drugs such as amphetamine and cocaine. These drugs have found significant popularity amongst night time workers, long distance drivers and taxi drivers providing energy to stay awake for extended periods. The downside to this use is the subsequent period of depression or tiredness after use which often leads to further “topping up” simply to avoid the comedown.
Our drug awareness programmes outline the signs and symptoms of illicit drug use whilst a suitable drug testing programme may also be appropriate.