By Glenn Dobson, CEO, The Drug Detection Agency
This month TDDA is introducing testing for tramadol and fentanyl — two high-risk opioids that pose serious workplace safety concerns worldwide. For the first time in New Zealand, these substances will be included in enhanced oral fluid and urine screening devices, eliminating the need for costly independent testing technology.
Opioid misuse is a growing global issue and New Zealand is now seeing an increase in workplace detections. The Drug Detection Agency’s (TDDA) latest Imperans Report also revealed opioid use accounted for 12.1% of positive workplace drug tests from October to December 2024, up from 11.9% in the same period of 2023.
Conducted by Massey University, the 2024 New Zealand Drugs Trends Survey found 27% of respondents reported non-medical use of pharmaceuticals in the past six months. The issue is nationwide, with Southland and West Coast reporting the highest levels of prescription opioid misuse.
Until recently, it looked like New Zealand was avoiding the opioid crisis seen overseas, but that’s changing. Any increase in opioid detections represents a serious workplace threat. Whether legally prescribed or illicitly obtained, opioids can cause workplace accidents, addiction and long-term issues, and even the loss of life. The data overall is signalling that employers need to take action.
As New Zealand’s largest workplace drug testing provider, TDDA is doing just that, and to help keep people safe it has expanded its drug screening capabilities.
This month TDDA is introducing testing for tramadol and fentanyl — two high-risk opioids that pose serious workplace safety concerns worldwide. For the first time in New Zealand, these substances will be included in enhanced oral fluid and urine screening devices, eliminating the need for costly independent testing technology.
This industry-leading TDDA R&D innovation expands TDDA’s standard screening panel from seven to nine drug types at no additional cost. The updated devices, verified by an AS/NZS 4760:2019 and AS/NZS 4308:2008 accredited laboratory, will help businesses proactively mitigate risks associated with these potent substances and help contractors remain compliant with health and safety law.
TDDA monitors global drug trends to ensure workplaces stay ahead of emerging risks. The rising presence of tramadol and fentanyl demands action, and that’s why TDDA is now providing businesses with advanced detection capabilities. By integrating the technology into its screening devices, it gives businesses the tools to protect their workforces.
Drug and alcohol policies differ from business to business, so to provide flexibility, TDDA has implemented an opt-in/opt-out process through its Imperans IT platform, allowing businesses to tailor their testing requirements.
Opioids are serious substances and TDDA is urging businesses to take a proactive approach to workplace safety through implementing comprehensive drug testing programmes, including pre-employment, reasonable cause, and random drug and alcohol testing.
For more information visit tdda.com or scan the QR code.
