As the holiday season approaches, celebrations are on the rise, and with them comes an increased risk of alcohol and drug-related workplace incidents. For New Zealand’s transport industry, this time of year can be particularly tricky when it comes to maintaining safety and compliance with the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, especially with the heightened potential for substance abuse among employees.
Substance abuse can negatively impact companies through increased health & safety risks, impaired decision-making, reduced performance and absenteeism – none of which transport companies can afford to overlook.
We are seeing drugs such as synthetic opioids (like fentanyl, tramadol and oxycodone) being more widely used in society. These powerful prescription medications along with ongoing alcohol misuse, pose significant risks to workplace safety.
Why regular reviews matter
Most businesses today have a drug and alcohol policy in place. However, like any organisational policy, these should be regularly reviewed. A robust and fit for purpose substance use policy is crucial for maintaining a safe environment, especially during times of increased risk like the holiday season.
Employment court cases often bring about new requirements that must be incorporated into workplace testing procedures. The evolving landscape of substance use, particularly the rise of synthetic opioids and medicinal cannabis, means that what was effective last year might not be enough to handle emerging threats today.
The Drug Detection Agency (TDDA) has witnessed many legal difficulties for businesses when they rush into testing without proper guidance. That’s why it’s critical to work with experts to develop and implement a robust policy tailored to your company’s specific needs.
Developing a comprehensive substance use policy
Creating an effective drug and alcohol policy starts with professional advice. A well-crafted policy shouldn’t just satisfy legal requirements; it helps protect your workforce and sends a clear message about the company’s stance on substance use.
The policy must address a range of substances: alcohol, illicit drugs, synthetic opioids, prescription medications and even medicinal cannabis. Comprehensive coverage ensures no gaps are left in the company’s defences, particularly as new substances and usage patterns emerge.
Implement effective testing methods
Substance testing is a vital component of any drug and alcohol policy. TDDA encourages a multi-faceted approach to testing, using different methods to suit various situations. Pre-employment screening helps filter out habitual substance users before they enter the workforce, while random testing during employment acts as an ongoing deterrent. Post-incident and reasonable– cause testing are essential for investigating accidents or addressing employee behaviour that raises concerns.
Different testing methods serve different purposes. Urine and oral fluid tests provide quick, accurate detection of recent drug use, while hair testing reveals long-term patterns. Lab-based testing, which offers the highest level of accuracy, is critical when legal scrutiny may be involved.
Clear communication and enforcement
A good policy is only as effective as its enforcement. It’s not enough to have employees sign off when they’re hired – they need regular reminders, especially around high-risk periods like the holiday season. Training managers and supervisors to apply the policy fairly is equally important.
No two workplaces are the same, and your substance use policy should reflect the specific needs of your organisation. With the holiday season and the rising threat of synthetic opioids and prescription drugs, it’s critical for businesses in the transport industry to have strong substance use policies in place. If your company’s drug and alcohol policy needs review or updating, TDDA can help you stay compliant and protect your workforce.
Proactive health management
TDDA, a leader in workplace drug and alcohol testing across Australasia, recently became the first drug and alcohol testing and collection company in New Zealand to obtain IANZ accreditation for oral fluid collection, on top of its existing accreditation for urine drug testing.
This new accreditation, in line with AS/NZS 4760:2019 (oral fluid), ensures that TDDA’s testing meets rigorous standards for collection, storage and handling, delivering the highest level of accuracy and reliability.
Beyond drug and alcohol testing, supporting employee wellbeing also provides a solid foundation for a safe, productive workforce. TDDA’s Health Tick service offers the highest -quality occupational health services including pre-employment medicals, annual health monitoring and driver medicals – DL9 led by registered nurses. Health Tick complements your substance use policy by managing your workforce’s health proactively and securely through TDDA’s proprietary software system, Imperans. Born from TDDA’s extensive experience, Health Tick is backed by a network of registered nurses and clinic locations across New Zealand. This integrated approach helps keep your workforce healthy, safe, and compliant, adding another layer of protection for your business.
For more information visit tdda.com
