The use of a biological sample from the body like hair, urine, blood, saliva or sweat in order to test the presence of foreign particles that can influence one’s control over mind and body, or the presence of drugs or alcohol, is generally known as a drug or alcohol test.
Drug tests are usually done in order to determine the presence of chemicals. Similarly, alcohol tests occur to detect alcohol levels in the blood. Both of these testing procedures are sometimes conducted in workplaces in order to track down any abuse and re-educate everyone so that you can have an optimally performing workforce.
Training
It is important to train employees and also officials with an understanding and comprehension of the testing procedure. This pre-emptive measure can be undertaken to prevent any confusion about the reasoning and the rationale behind the drug screening procedure and its workplace implementation.
Screening also helps to reduce and keep a check on incidents of drug induced behavioural problems. It becomes particularly important to have an on-site test for presence of alcohol and drugs in the workplace when individuals are using heavy industry, vehicles or are exposed to danger or the possibility of injury as part of their job.
Drug induced behaviours that may cause problems include:
- Lack of concentration
- Clumsiness
- Loss of mobility
- Loss of clarity
- Poor work performance
- Abusive behaviour
- Increased potential for accident
- Increased potential for injury.
A Positive View
Drug and alcohol screening are methods of safety and responsibility, and should be viewed in a positive light.
There is indeed a necessity for such on-site testing, especially now that we know that drug abuse and alcohol abuse is a major global factor affecting workplaces and human beings everywhere. In Australia and around the world a considerable amount of legislation has been introduced, making some of these workplace drug testing procedures mandatory. This is particularly the case for heavy industries in Australia.
It is also important in some circumstances that new employees should be tested in the workplace. This frequently occurs in the aviation sector to screen potential employees. In the United States, tests are also frequently conducted at the pre-employment stage, and these tests are all the more essential especially if one’s job involves some aspect of safety and security.
The staff in charge of secure areas, from top government offices to hospital staff, may also in some circumstances undergo testing.
Screening to rule out the presence of drugs
While it is natural to assume anyone behaving oddly has to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, it is also important to remember, the person behaving oddly could be suffering from a wide range of health issues that is actually causing the unruly or disconcerting behaviour. In these cases, the testing process may also help to clarify the issue and enable others to take necessary measures.
On-Site Screening for Drugs
Drug and alcohol on-site screening and testing is very beneficial in identifying those who are under the influence of foreign chemicals. These tests can be done to find out the presence of substances such as marijuana, cocaine, ecstasy, methadone, opiates, cannabis, anti-depressants, barbiturates, etc. apart from alcohol.
Naturally, it becomes important that the on-site testing for the presence of drugs and alcohol is done in a routine manner by properly trained individuals who can carry out the screening process with professionalism and precision. It can also act as a true lifeline, decreasing the risk of injury to employees and decreasing the risk of accident.
Mediscreen can help with this. 1300 797040
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