Think an employee has a drug problem? Here's what to do

More cases of employees using drugs have been detected across New Zealand, according to Resultz Group.

Kyly Coombes, managing director of Resultz Group, said that the reported higher detection rate of drug use in workplaces was due to the impact of COVID-19 on working arrangements.

"Some businesses limited the number of people on site due to Omicron. In other cases, testing was put on hold because there weren't enough employees," explained Coombes. "As a result, people who use drugs have been able to continue doing so without being detected. This has been reflected in higher detection rates when testing resumes."

According to Resultz Group, detection of drug use has "increased significantly" in workplaces since the beginning of the pandemic, leading to safety concerns for employees.

"An employee under the influence of drugs or alcohol poses an unnecessary risk to themselves and others," the company said in a media release. "The risk of workplace accidents increases dramatically if employees are impaired by drugs or alcohol."

This is why, despite not being a high priority for organisations, drug testing remains "essential" to ensure a safe workplace, according to Resultz Group.

Implementing drug tests in the workplace

Resultz Group stressed that drug testing is only allowed if it's part of an employment agreement or other written agreement between the employer and the employee.

"While you may have a suspicion of drug use, you will not legally be able to enforce a drug test without the correct workplace policies in place," the company said on its website.

Read more: How can HR accommodate workers addicted to drugs?

The development of a drug-testing policy within the workplace would need the assistance of a local legal representative or a drug-testing agency to ensure its compliance with relevant legislations.

"They will help you understand your obligations under these acts, and make sure your drug and alcohol policy adhere to them," said the company. "This process includes consultation with employees to gain their buy-in and support to create a safer workplace."

An employee tests positive, what now?

According to Coombes, the consequences of testing positive for drugs "very much depends on the industry and the level of health and safety risk involved". "Not surprisingly, those workplaces that are high risk have a zero-tolerance policy," he said.

Despite this, employees who test positive could still be retained and are placed under support.

"Yet the vast majority will retain the employee and take a supportive stance towards helping them seek help," explained Coombes. "Checks and balances are put in place to ensure they are drug free at work, and that the employee knows what to expect so there are no surprises if they test positive again."