When deciding how to implement drug & alcohol testing at your workplace, the in-house drug & alcohol testing option can seem attractive. Train a couple of responsible employees to do the drug & alcohol tests. Keep it simple. Save some money. Right? Wrong! This seemingly economical approach could end up costing your organisation a lot more than you may think.
If you are considering in-house drug & alcohol testing, there is a lot to think about: before, during and after drug & alcohol testing:
1) Storage and adequate supplies of in-date stock
2) Calibration and use of controls
3) How to transport non-negative samples to the laboratory
4) Chain of custody procedures
5) How to interpret laboratory reports and fitness for work assessments
6) Collectors – are they accredited and are they willing and able to deal with potentially highly emotional situations, especially after a non-negative result?
7) Safe disposal of used test kits
These are just a few - there is lots more to consider.
By using an independent, expert, third-party tester, both the employer and the workers can have faith in the drug & alcohol testing procedure. Furthermore, DASA's medical and health focus means we can reassure all parties, de-escalate a situation and get the testing done efficiently and - importantly - in a way that complies with the Standard.
Our "In-house Drug & Alcohol Testing" fact sheet is a great way to inform yourself on this topic.
It is available FREE of charge. Simply send an email to info@dasa.net.au or call us on (02) 8001-2535.