Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to ensure a safe and healthy work environment for all employees, and visiting customers, as well as to comply with UK laws regarding drug and alcohol use in the workplace. This policy applies to all employees of the Oil Analysis Laboratories, including full-time, part-time, temporary, and contract employees.
Prohibited Conduct:
- Possession, use, sale, distribution, or being under the influence of illegal drugs or controlled substances while on company property or whilst performing any company business.
- Possession, use, or being under the influence of alcohol while on company property or while performing company business, except in accordance with the company’s alcohol policy for approved events.
- Refusing to submit to a drug/alcohol test or perform a sobriety test as required by this policy.
Drug and Alcohol Testing:
- Where suspicion is raised about a member of staff being under the influence at work, the company reserves the right to conduct drug and alcohol testing at any time or conduct a sobriety test. Testing may be required for employment, promotion, transfer, or return to work.
- Testing may also be conducted in case of a workplace accident or if there is reasonable suspicion of drug or alcohol use.
- Alcohol testing will be performed using highways suitable breath tester. Should the suspicion also include use of illegal substances, the employee will be referred for drug testing by an independent laboratory which will may include testing for the presence of illegal drugs, controlled substances, and alcohol.
Drug and Alcohol Treatment and Rehabilitation:
- Employees who test positive for drugs or alcohol will be required to participate in a treatment and rehabilitation program as part of their continued employment.
- Failure to successfully complete the treatment and rehabilitation program may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment.
- The company will make every effort to maintain the confidentiality of employees undergoing treatment and rehabilitation.
Drug and Alcohol Education and Awareness:
- The company will provide education and awareness programs for all employees on the dangers and consequences of drug and alcohol use in the workplace.
- The company will also provide resources and support for employees seeking assistance with drug or alcohol addiction.
Alcohol in a working environment
Under no circumstances is Alcohol to be consumed on laboratory premises. Occasionally, colleagues socialising, such as at Christmas parties or even corporate hospitality off-site with customers or suppliers outside of working hours, may occur, which includes consumption of Alcohol. We ask all employees to be minded during these interactions you are still a representative of the business and expect moderation to be used in all such circumstances. Excessive consumption, aggressive behaviour or rudeness to colleagues, customers or suppliers will not be tolerated, regardless of whether this occurs on company premises.
Alcohol at Home
Our employees may wish to consume Alcohol outside of work hours e.g. at home or at licenced establishments. Everyone is asked to remember that it is the responsibility of each individual to arrive at work in a sober state and sobriety will be tested should there be any evidence of Alcohol consumption close to beginning a work shift. We would recommend cessation of any Alcohol consumption at least 12 hours before appearing at work premises and should a member of staff struggle to achieve this they will be subject to disciplinary action.
Enforcement and Discipline:
- Violations of this policy will result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.
- The company will comply with all UK laws regarding drug and alcohol use in the workplace.
- Disciplinary action will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may include, but is not limited to, verbal or written warning, suspension, or termination of employment.
This policy is intended to provide a safe and healthy work environment for all employees. Any questions or concerns about this policy should be directed to the laboratory management team
