Randox Testing Services announce attendance at HRD Summit 2020
16 January 2020
Randox Testing Services to attend HRD Summit 2020
RTS are pleased to announce we will be attending the HRD Summit 2020. The two-day event is taking place on 4-5 February at the ICC, Birmingham.
The HRD Summit plays host to the most senior HR and business leaders on the globe. The 2020 Summit will welcome over 1,500 attendees, over 150 speakers across 8 content streams, over 80 Exhibitors, over 250 Match Meetings and 11+ hours of networking spread across 2 days.
For RTS it will be the first time attending the event and UK Sales Manager Michelle Fenn is anticipating a busy and productive two days. She said,
“RTS are delighted to be attending the HRD Summit in Birmingham. It is an event that we have identified that would be ideally suited to promote the message of safer workplaces through minimising the impacts of drug & alcohol misuse. In workplaces, employers are becoming more mindful and aligned to their well-being of their employees. One part of this is ensuring a health and safety policy is in place.
A key role within this is ensuring an accurate and concise drug and alcohol policy that is effectively communicated to all employees. RTS are proud of the assistance we provide in helping companies to reduce the impact of substance misuse, so we look forward to engaging with the companies and delegates who will be attending the HRD Summit over the two days.”
As well as exhibiting in the dedicated Partner Zone at the event where delegates can engage with us directly and find out more about our services relating to drug & alcohol testing, we will also be taking part in one of the roundtable discussions that will be happening during the event, so keep an eye on our website and social media in the run up to the event for more information!
About Randox Testing Services
Randox Testing Services is a specialist in the drug & alcohol testing industry. We aim to educate and inform companies about the dangers of drug and alcohol misuse in the workplace, and the impact it can have on an organisation.
If you are attending HRD Summit and would like to speak with us about drug & alcohol testing, visit us in the Partner Zone where one of our colleagues will be happy to speak with you.
Alternatively, if you would like to know more about workplace drug & alcohol testing and how we can help your business, contact us using any of the below details.
Email: testingservices@randox.com
Phone: 028 9445 1011
Want to know more?
Contact us or visit our website to read more.
New report highlights scale and causes of prescription drug dependence in UK
10 December 2019
New report highlights scale and causes of prescription drug dependence in UK
A new report has highlighted the scale and causes of prescription drug dependence in the UK. In 2017, the minister for public health and primary care commissioned Public Health England (PHE) to identify the scale, distribution and causes of prescription drug dependence, and what might be done to address it.
The review covered adults (aged 18 and over) and 5 classes of medicines:
- benzodiazepines (mostly prescribed for anxiety)
- z-drugs (sleeping tablets with effects similar to benzodiazepines)
- gabapentin and pregabalin (together called gabapentinoids and used to treat epilepsy, neuropathic pain and, in the case of pregabalin, anxiety)
- opioids for chronic non-cancer pain
- antidepressants
PHE’s analysis shows that, in 2017 to 2018, 11.5 million adults in England (26% of the adult population) received, and had dispensed, one or more prescriptions for any of the medicines within the scope of the review. The totals for each medicine were:
- z-drugs – 1.0 million (2%)
- benzodiazepines – 4 million (3%)
- gabapentinoids – 5 million (3%)
- antidepressants – 3 million people (17% of the adult population)
- opioid pain medicines – 6 million (13%)
Trends
Between 2015 to 2016 and 2017 to 2018 the rate of prescribing for antidepressants increased from 15.8% of the adult population to 16.6% and for gabapentinoids from 2.9% to 3.3%. There was a small decrease in prescribing rates for the other 3 medicine classes. Rates of prescribing were higher for women (1.5 times those of men), and the rates generally increased with age. After a long increasing trend, the annual number of prescriptions for opioid pain medicines has slightly decreased since 2016. There is a continuing longer-term fall in prescription numbers for benzodiazepines. A longer-term increase in annual prescription numbers for z-drugs started to reverse in 2014.
Officials said long-term use on such a scale could not be justified and was a sign of patients dependence.
PHE medical director Prof Paul Cosford said he was worried.
“These medicines have many vital clinical uses and can make a big difference to people’s quality of life.”
But he added there were too many cases where patients were using them for longer than “clinically” appropriate – where the drugs would have simply stopped working effectively or where the risks could outweigh the benefits.
Conclusions
One in 4 adults in England were prescribed benzodiazepines, z-drugs, gabapentinoids, opioids for chronic non-cancer pain, or antidepressants. Prescriptions for antidepressants and gabapentinoids are increasing, but prescriptions for opioid pain medicines are decreasing. Prescriptions for benzodiazepines continue to fall, and those for z-drugs have more recently started to fall.
Peter Burkinshaw at PHE, one of the authors said: “The long-term prescribing of opioid pain medicines and benzodiazepines is not supported by guidelines and is not effective.”
Fellow author Rosanna O’Connor, said: “We know that GPs in some of the more deprived areas are under great pressure but, as this review highlights, more needs to be done to educate and support patients, as well as looking closely at prescribing practice and what alternative treatments are available locally.
References
Dependence and withdrawal associated with some prescribed medicines (PHE)
https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2019/sep/10/addictive-medication-nhs-opioid-crisis-government-study-england
Randox Testing Services
At Randox Testing Services we are at the forefront of alcohol and drug testing. We aim to spread the message of alcohol and drug misuse and the effects substance abuse can have on individuals and businesses. Prescription & OTC medication if taken incorrectly can have a devastating impact. It’s important to communicate with employers if you are taking prescription medication for any reason. If your organisation undertakes workplace testing, our chain of custody process provides clarity on the steps needed to ensure confidentiality is maintained.
For more information on drug & alcohol testing, including the wide range of substances we can test for, please visit www.randoxtestingservices.com or email testingservices@randox.com
Want to know more?
Contact us or visit our website to read more.
Practical steps for dealing with substance misuse in the workplace
11 November 2019
Practical steps for dealing with substance misuse in the workplace
What is substance misuse?
Substance misuse (or abuse) is defined as the sustained use of any mind-altering substance. This includes legal substances like solvents and alcohol as well as illegal drugs. Through this continued use the user’s physical and mental health are severely affected. The misuse of substances in the workplace can cause issues such as increased absenteeism, low productivity and create an unsafe working environment.
It is estimated that between 3% and 5% of all work absences are due to alcohol abuse and that 1 in 30 employees has had drugs in their system at one time in the workplace. All employers have a legal responsibility to ensure the health, safety and welfare of their employees and so statistics like this cannot be ignored.
What can employers do?
As an employer, it is important that measures are taken to protect all employees and the company from potential dangers. To do this, employers should:
Introduce a comprehensive drug and alcohol policy. This lets all stakeholders know exactly where the company stands on substance misuse and shows that you are being proactive in your approach.
Conduct drug and alcohol testing. Utilising random and/or with cause testing can help quickly identify any substance misuse issues. Consider including a contractual obligation for employees to co-operate with this.
Train staff to identify the signs of substance misuse. Make everyone aware of the issue and give them the ability to look for the key signs. This can only help increase safety.
Keep up-to-date with the latest legislation. The laws on substance misuse can change quite quickly, especially as new substances like legal highs are identified and re-classified. Ensure you are aware of the latest changes.
Support employees. Addiction or frequent misuse of substances should be treated the same way as other health issues. Offer support to your employees and help them make a quick return to work.
The above steps can help better manage the issue of substance misuse in the workplace. Effectively communicating the company’s stance on this issue to employees brings clarity and lets everyone know where they stand.
Randox Testing Services
At Randox Testing Services we offer comprehensive drug and alcohol testing solutions for workplaces. We incorporate cutting-edge screening methods to provide an outstanding testing service and are well-positioned to provide consultancy and support to help you put an effective workplace drug and alcohol testing policy in place.
For more information contact us at testingservices@randox.com.
Want to know more?
Contact us or visit our website to read more.
RTS | Which company testing is right for me?
04 October 2019
Which company testing method is right for me?
Implementation of an effective substance misuse policy establishes employer rights to conduct workplace drug and alcohol testing if required. In addition, it ensures adherence to the duty of care of an employer to protect their workforce and keep employees safe. There are a range of approaches available to complement your policy to ensure a safer working environment. In this blog we take a look at two common types of testing; random testing and with-cause testing.
Random Testing
With knowledge that a test could be conducted with anyone at any time, random testing is the most effective deterrent of drug abuse or alcohol misuse among employees. Ensuring the integrity of staff across all levels, random testing can be conducted with employees at any level, from temporary employees to managers and directors.
Process
The process includes ensuring a clear workplace drug and alcohol testing policy is in place. Employees should also be made aware that random drug and alcohol testing is carried out; this can take the form of a clear statement in an employee’s contract outlining that random testing can be conducted with little to no notice. Notification of this conforms to legislation whilst respecting employee rights.
Secondly, we will work with you to determine the percentage of your workforce you would like to test, and how often you would like testing to be carried out. Whilst we recommend random drug and alcohol testing should be performed at least quarterly, the decision is yours. To avoid employee discrimination and to ensure testing is random, we use our random selection technology to eliminate bias and provide accurate random selections.
Finally, we will arrive to your workplace unannounced to carry out sample collections from the random selection of employees.
Key Benefits
By implementing a random drug testing may help employers by:
- Deterring current employees from engaging in drug use
- Preventing the need for substance abuse recovery programs
- Employees are less likely to tactfully try to disguise results, or alter their habits, as they will be given little to no notice that a test is going to be conducted
- Improving attendance and employee productivity
- Providing a safer workplace with reduced accidents
With-Cause Testing
Under the Misuse of Drugs Act (1971), if an employer suspects an employee is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they are legally required to take appropriate action to protect the safety of the employee concerned, other members of staff and the public.
Process
The nature of with-cause testing means that testing can be required ‘on-the-spot’. At Randox Testing Services, we offer a 24-hour call-out service which guarantees an experienced collection officer will arrive to your company within a maximum of 2 hours to perform a sample collection. This service is available 24/7, 365 days a year and complies fully with chain of custody procedures.
Benefits
- Legal compliance with correct measurements being taken if an employee is suspected of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Can deter employee misuse of drugs or alcohol due to a workplace testing policy being in place
- Cost savings because of increased productivity with issues being discovered and rectified early
How Randox Testing Services can help
At Randox Testing Services we possess a wealth of experience and knowledge that enables us to offer holistic packages to meet the needs of the customer, regardless of their location or industry. This knowledge comes from over 35 years of testing experience in the diagnostics industry and through our involvement with bodies that help shape testing legislation.
For more information about our range of drug & alcohol testing products, our expertise in this industry and our array of support services, visit www.randoxtestingservices.com.
If you would like to speak with one of our experts, use any of the following methods:
Email: testingservices@randox.com
Phone: +44 (0) 28 9445 1011
Want to know more?
Contact us or visit our website to read more.
Addressing Drugs and Alcohol in the Workplace
05 September 2019
Workplace Drug and Alcohol Testing
Addressing Drugs and Alcohol in the Workplace
Within any business, companies seek to outline clear methods in which employees should act and behave whilst carrying out their roles. These rules are outlined in company workplace policies. Every business – no matter which industry it operates in – should have well-documented and comprehensive workplace policies and procedures in place.
According to the Employment Law Handbook, a workplace policy is a set of rules and principles that aims to provide guidance to managers and workers in how to behave in the workplace. They can be in place for numerous different issues – bullying, harassment, internet use, health and safety are just a few that can be implemented.
Health and Safety
As mentioned above, health and safety is an important aspect of any workplace policy. The health and well-being of the working community is of utmost importance for sustainable development. Specifically, a drug and alcohol policy is a key part of the overall health and safety policy within a company. Alcohol and drugs through their effects on health, safety, work performance and absenteeism can jeopardise productivity, deny businesses the leading edge and curtail competitiveness. Effectively implemented drug and alcohol policies will help employers in the legal duty to protect the health, safety and welfare of employees.
The need for a Drug and Alcohol Policy
Drugs and alcohol misuse can have dangerous consequences within the workplace. All organisations can benefit from an agreed policy that applies to all staff. There are wide range of statistics available to highlight the worrying impact that drugs and alcohol can have on individuals. In 2016, it was estimated that £7 billion was lost in productivity through unemployment and sickness. Furthermore, 10.8 million adults in England are drinking at levels that pose some risk to their health. A survey carried out by UK based Health and Safety Consultants Protecting.co.uk showed that; from 2,600 workers in office, factory, retail and the public sector, 85% admit to being drunk at work in the last year; not including the Christmas party. 28% of those surveyed admitted using drugs at work, including NPS (formerly legal highs) cannabis and other illegal substances.
From a legal point of view, employers have a duty of care under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 to ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare at work of employees. Also, under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, to assess the risks to the health and safety of employees. If an employer knowingly allows an employee under the influence of drug misuse to continue working and his/her behaviour places the employee or others at risk, they may face prosecution.
Advantages of having policies in place
Having well-developed policies and procedures can provide a range of benefits to an organisation. An effectively implemented drug and alcohol policy will ensure a clear understanding within the workplace of the rules relating to drugs and alcohol. It will also provide a greater awareness in workplaces of the effects of drugs and alcohol an consequently early recognition. Furthermore, it ensures that the necessary structures and procedures are in place should a problem arise. An up to date policy will also provide assurance that key staff have been trained to understand the issues involved and have the necessary skills to deal with any problems should they arise.
How can Randox Testing Services help?
At Randox Testing Services we offer a comprehensive consultancy service to help employers create an effective substance misuse policy. By providing this service we offer practical advice, guidance and support in composing a substance misuse policy.
Our confidential policy review service provides assistance to employers with an existing substance misuse policy. With this service, we help to modify existing documents to ensure it is legally viable and can withstand challenge in court.
For more information on our comprehensive consultancy service, visit our website: www.randoxtestingservices.com or contact us by emailing testingservices@randox.com.
To read more about workplace polices and their importance within an organisation, click here.
Want to know more?
Contact us or visit our website to read more.
Flexible Drug and Alcohol Testing Methods
06 August 2019
Flexible Drug and Alcohol Testing Methods
At Randox Testing Services our complete testing solutions include flexible drug and alcohol testing methods that can be tailored to meet our customer needs. In all aspects of testing we ensure the accuracy and reliability of results and utilise strict chain of custody procedures across all our testing methods.
To guarantee the most effective form of testing our dedicated Account Managers make informed recommendations to our customers on what type of testing best suits their business needs. The different methods are outlined below along with the sample types that can be tested:
Drug and Alcohol Testing Methods
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Abstinence Monitoring
Conducted as a follow up on a confirmed positive drug or alcohol test. If an employer provides support to an employee who has had a confirmed positive drug or alcohol test, this type of testing may be used to help with rehabilitation.
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Post-Incident
Used to determine if drugs or alcohol may have contributed to an accident/incident in the workplace. This type of testing can be an effective tool in accident investigations and it is our recommendation that should an incident occur, all employees involved should be tested.
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Pre-Employment
This is the most popular type of workplace testing especially in industries which have safety critical roles. This type of testing is an essential part of a company’s recruitment process and clearly states the company’s position on drug and alcohol misuse for any potential employee.
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Random
A popular type of testing within workplaces as it acts as a deterrent to drug and alcohol abuse. A company’s drug and alcohol testing policy should clearly outline that they carry out random workplace testing ensuring employees do not know when the event is planned.
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With-Cause
Performed when a company is suspicious that an employee may be currently under the influence of alcohol or misusing drugs. This suspicion is normally raised if an employee is acting out of character and there has been observed different behaviours.
Sample Types
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Urine (Alcohol and Drugs)
The most common sample type for drug testing and offers a longer detection window than oral fluid for drugs.
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Oral Fluid (Drugs only)
Oral fluid testing analyses a saliva sample for parent drugs and their metabolites, providing analysis of short-term drug abuse.
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Hair (Alcohol and Drugs)
A hair drugs test offers a longer window of detection than alternative testing and can provide a detailed view or overall picture of drug use. Detection window is based on hair length with 1cm of head equating to approximately 1 month of detection.
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Breath (Alcohol only)
Breath can be tested for alcohol using hand-held devices which provide immediate results. These devices can gauge blood alcohol content (BAC) by measuring deep lung air.
About Randox Testing Services
Randox Testing Services is a market leader in the drug and alcohol testing industry. Our expertise is relied upon by a range of leading safety-critical companies across the world.
We pride ourselves on helping our customers improve the health and safety of their working environment through helping them implement a comprehensive substance misuse policy. Our expertise within this industry allows us to craft customised packages to meet the testing needs of any workplace. Our drug and alcohol testing methods are flexible to adapt to any changes and our testing processes are accurate, to guarantee reliable results.
Contact us today be at testingservices@randox.com or call 028 9445 1011 to speak to one of our experts.
Want to know more?
Contact us or visit our website to read more.
Q&A with Randox Testing Services: All Things Workplace Drug & Alcohol Testing
At Randox Testing Services, we are always trying to think of new ways to get the message across about the positive impact workplace drug & alcohol testing can have on an organisation. So, we decided to speak with one of our colleagues; Simon Tibbo, who is regularly engaging with companies about how to be proactive in minimising the risks of substance misuse.
Read below to find out what he had to say.
From your experience and knowledge, what industries are currently implementing testing programmes?
Apart from the finance industry, I’ve personally seen testing programmes within almost all business sectors, from the obvious, safety critical industries, Rail Track, Maritime, Construction, Logistics, all the way through to manufacturing firms, retail outlets, and even predominantly clerical companies. If a company has a workplace substance misuse policy and are looking to satisfactorily enforce the terms within, they will be engaged with a service provider, such as Randox, to properly support the policy.
What are, in your opinion, the barriers that companies face when trying to implement working drug & alcohol testing?
The introduction of a substance misuse policy to an already existing ‘company handbook’ can be a challenge, especially if the work-force has been established for some time. People don’t tend to like change, especially within the workplace. Unions can sometimes be unwelcoming to the idea of random testing and will often look to restrict the scope of testing or the policy itself. I’d say that each industry/company will likely meet its own barriers whilst developing and implementing a policy, and some may well be unique to the individual circumstances. Often, customers may implement an amnesty period prior to the commencement of a drug testing programme. This gives employees the opportunity to come forward and declare if they have a substance misuse issue which they can address together with their employer without sanctions.
Why has there been a delay in some companies developing workplace policies that directly relate to substance misuse?
There could be many reasons as to why a company hasn’t implemented a policy, but I’d expect somewhere near the top of that list would be either the assumption there isn’t a substance misuse issue within the business/industry, the worry that a substance misuse issue within the business/industry is highlighted by the introduction of a policy, and therefore creating more problems than its seen to be solving, or even that a company is simply unaware the solution is available and beneficial.
How important within a policy is it that a company clearly outlines what is expected of an employee, and the consequences of substance misuse?
Very! A policy needs to be clear and concise in its structure and procedures. If you aren’t explaining the terms or the consequences you could potentially end up with a problematic HR process and unresolvable tribunal cases. If an employee has sight of a straightforward policy they will know what to expect if the terms are breached, not to mention enforcing it should be equally as straightforward. It is also important to state why the policy is in place – i.e. to protect the workforce, the public and the company reputation.
Is it important to state cut-offs in substance misuse policies?
For alcohol, yes, most certainly. For drugs, not so much. An alcohol test with a home office approved breathalyser will provide an evidential result, which can be directly related to a ‘site cut-off’ (in the same manner as the existence of a road legal limit). Workplace drug testing should adhere to specific guidelines set-out by the EWDTS (European Workplace Drug Testing Society) in not just it’s procedures, but also its expected substance cut-offs. The cut-offs differ between substances so it’s not quite as straightforward. My suggestion would always be, if you feel it necessary to include drug cut-off information, refer to the EWDTS guidelines, they’re available to download on the EWDTS website if anyone needs sight, but ensure your provider is working to them and don’t go into full details, it’ll serve only to add unnecessary bulk to what should ideally be a streamlined policy.
How effective has workplace testing been in helping companies reduce the risk of drug & alcohol use?
From personal experience I can tell you, I’ve seen companies implement a policy/testing practice due to an awareness of substance misuse, only to reduce the volume of testing over time as the approach has proved successful in reducing or eradicating the specific problem. I’d say that’s a testament to implementing a random testing practice, it sends a sensible message in a fair and balanced manner, which ultimately gets results. If it’s done right, it’s going to be beneficial, even if it’s not particularly well received at its inception. Other examples where testing volume has been scaled back have led to an increase in the rates of positives demonstrating that an active testing programme is a deterrent to substance misuse.
Going forward, what industries do you see adopting a more proactive approach in use of substance misuse testing?
Likely most industries, every company has a duty of care to staff, contractors, visitors and/or the public. There will always be industries that don’t agree, don’t want to uncover issues or don’t believe they exist, but it’s the people that matter and the more that’s done to promote safety, welfare and overall good practice, the more industries will settle to the idea.
About Randox Testing Services
Randox Testing Services offer a wide range of products and services for the testing of illicit substances. We can craft customised packages to suit the needs of our customers, no matter what the industry.
Our expertise and experience working within this industry allow us to provide a range of testing solutions that will impact the risk of substance use in the workplace. With an extensive collection network and quality products, we can meet the needs of your business.
To find out more, contact us:
Email: testingservices@randox.com
Phone: +44 (0) 28 9442 2413
Support Services for Workplace Drug and Alcohol Testing
Support Services for Workplace Testing
At Randox Testing Services, our ability to provide a wide range of products to carry out workplace drug and alcohol testing is just one part of what we do.
Alongside our drug and alcohol testing products, we provide a range of support services to guarantee complete and comprehensive testing solutions to meet your needs.
Substance Misuse Policy Review
To ensure our customers can implement a comprehensive workplace substance misuse testing policy, we conduct a full review of any relevant policies that are already in place. We offer this support service free of charge to customers. This is the first step in our process and checks that all wording and descriptions are relevant and accurate.
Once the policy has been reviewed and if necessary amended, recommendations can be made as to how the changes can be implemented. In some cases, a presentation from a Randox Testing Services representative may be necessary to explain the changes and what they mean to all staff.
Training & Education
Our training courses ensure employer confidence to carry out workplace drug and alcohol testing and management competence in enforcing the processes. All training courses are fully documented, regularly reviewed and include and assessment of the effectiveness of training. Additionally, all attendees are provided with a certificate at the end of each completed training course.
Educational seminars offer a chance for the topic of drugs and alcohol to be discussed. This opens a learning experience for employers and their employees and can be beneficial for not only the workplace but everyone taking part.
Our Training and Education Courses Include:
Drug and Alcohol Management Awareness Training
Aims to provide managers and supervisors with an understanding of drugs and alcohol and a practical knowledge of substance abuse in the workplace.
Chain of Custody Training
Empowers employers to conduct their own sample collections on-site with the same accuracy and precision as a Randox Testing Services Collection Officer.
We also offer various other services which assist companies in the implementation of workplace testing. Account management and various management information reports enable your company to receive as much information as possible about the testing being carried out, and detailed reports allow management to see the effects of workplace testing on your business.
About Randox Testing Services
At Randox Testing Services we aim to provide the best possible service to our customers. Whether this is by providing testing to a wide range of clients, or supporting companies with their workplace testing efforts; it is our goal to ensure workplaces are drug and alcohol free.
If you would like more information about any of our drug or alcohol testing products or how we can meet the needs of your business through our tailored services, please contact us using any of the below methods.
Web: www.randoxtestingservices.com/contact/
Email: testingservices@randox.com
Phone: +44 (0) 28 9445 1011
For further blogs visit www.randox.com/news
Different methods of drug testing and the benefits of each
Types of Drug Testing
At Randox Testing Services (RTS) we provide a range of testing solutions to enable you to conduct employee testing. Our screening procedure is efficient and involves an experienced sample collection officer visiting your premises to collect samples and transport them back to our laboratories for analysis. Alternatively, we can also train a member of your staff to collect samples on site with the same degree of accuracy as an RTS collection officer. Our testing solutions ensure coverage of all types of employee testing and meet the needs of all businesses.
For-Cause Testing
For-cause drug and alcohol testing is conducted when there is suspected drug abuse or alcohol misuse in the workplace. Suspicion may arise because of the employee exerting signs of substance abuse, if an allegation has been made, if drugs or alcohol have been found within the workplace or following an accident at work.
The key benefits include;
- Legal compliance with correct measurements being taken if an employee is suspected of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Can deter employee misuse of drugs or alcohol due to a workplace drug and alcohol testing policy being in place.
Pre-Employment Testing
Pre-employment screening for substance abuse is an increasingly common type of workplace drug and alcohol testing. As an indicator of candidate suitability, it forms an essential part of a company’s recruitment process and helps maintain the safety of its current employee workforce and business environment.
The key benefits include,
- Pre-employment screening is one of the easiest programmes to implement.
- Screening applicants for use of drugs and alcohol ensures you employ the right people for your business.
- Effective way of preventing future issues such as absenteeism and decreased productivity.
- Pre-employment screening can help protect the integrity of a company by acting as an effective deterrent.
- A pre-employment drug test is proved helpful to boost the repute of an organisation. The drug abusers usually stay away from applying in any firm that held a drug test at the time of employment.
Random Testing
Random testing for drugs and alcohol is a popular type of employee testing. With knowledge that a test could be conducted on anyone at any time it acts as an effective deterrent of drug abuse or alcohol misuse among employees.
The key benefits include;
- Random testing is a deterrent for employees as they are aware they could be asked to undertake a test at any time.
- It is a convenient and easy way to maintain a safe working environment free from substance abuse.
- Employees are less likely to tactfully try to disguise results, or alter their habits, as they will be given little or no notice that a test is going to be conducted.
- Employees are less likely to feel singled out due to random selection.
Post-incident testing
Post-incident testing occurs after an accident or incident in the workplace to determine if drugs or alcohol may have contributed to the cause. Incidents include injury to an employee, assault of an employee by another member of staff or damage to property.
If this is required, it is recommended that all employees involved in the incident are tested.
The key benefits include;
- Safeguards the rights of the employees and employers to proving or disproving if drugs or alcohol were a factor in an incident.
- Minimises the chance of a similar incident occurring.
Abstinence Monitoring
Abstinence monitoring provides employees with the support and opportunity to remain abstinent and continue to successfully at work. This type of testing is an effective tool to track progress towards addiction recovery for both the employee and the employer. Regular drug screens also give the recovering person added motivation to protect their sobriety.
For the employer abstinence monitoring provides greater security in knowing that their employee is safe to work. This is particularly important for safety critical roles.
The key benefits include;
- Ensures that an employer is tackling and reducing the instances of substance abuse in the workplace.
- Shows support from an employer throughout an employee’s rehabilitation process.
- Increases employee morale and productivity.
- Helps prevent staff turnover by offering a second chance.
- Studies have shown that close monitoring by physicians, especially in early recovery, results in abstinence rates of over 80%.
At RTS we offer varied testing methods to be as flexible as the customer needs to fit in with their requirements.
For any further questions about implementing a workplace drug and alcohol testing policy or just general questions on workplace testing, please get in touch today!
Email – testingservices@randox.com
Phone – +44 (0) 28 9445 1011
RTS attending NI Construction Expo
Randox Testing Services are delighted to announce that we will be attending the Northern Ireland Construction Expo. Titanic Exhibition Centre will be the venue for the event, taking place on 13th February.
The NI Construction Expo brings together over 2000 construction companies, developers, policy makers, project owners and a plethora of other organisations, to provide an environment of debate, further knowledge in the design, construction and management of Northern Ireland’s buildings, infrastructure and industrial projects.
Attending the event will be our Senior Business Development Executive David O’Regan and our Business Development Executive Jim Windsor. Both have many years’ experience in workplace drug and alcohol testing and they will be more than happy to answer any questions you have regarding implementing a workplace testing policy.
Our Sales Executive Jim Windsor will be speaking at the event, providing those in attendance how drug & alcohol testing in the construction industry can have a positive impact on a business in this safety-critical environment.
If you would like to arrange a meeting with our team, please contact testingservices@randox.com. We will be exhibiting at stand B11B, make sure you stop by and have a chat to our team for any drug & alcohol testing related queries you may have.
Randox Testing Services
Randox Testing Services is part of the Randox Laboratories group, a global market leader in the diagnostics industry with over 35 years’ experience. Founded in 1982 by current Managing Director, Dr Peter FitzGerald CBE FREng, Randox is dedicated to accurate and sensitive sample testing. The ethos within Randox is to produce quality products, supported by continual investment in research and development.
Randox Testing Services is a specialist in the drug and alcohol testing industry. Our expertise is relied upon by a range of leading safety-critical companies across the UK, Ireland and internationally, as well as the medico-legal sector.
For regular updates on our products and other topical information follow us on Twitter (RandoxTesting) and LinkedIn (randox-testing-services).
Visit our website today for more information:
Medico-legal Testing: https://www.randoxtestingservices.com/medico-legal-testing/
Private Individuals: https://www.randoxtestingservices.com/private-individuals/
Contact Us: https://www.randoxtestingservices.com/contact-us/
Phone: +44 (0) 161 741 2760
