Workplace drug policy

With drug use having increased in recent years, it could have a detrimental impact on your workplace. For this reason, you should use a drug policy to manage the potential risks arising from misuse.

Dealing with drugs

A survey carried out by Time Out magazine found that one in three workers admitted to having taken drugs such as cocaine, cannabis and ecstasy whilst at work. You should therefore consider introducing a Workplace Drugs Policy, to help you manage the potential risks. In particular, it can set out exactly what you expect of your staff in relation to any use of recreational drugs.

Making the policy work

Due to the risks arising through working under the influence of drugs, the policy begins by setting out the legal position as part of its general introductory statement. In the second section it briefly explains why the taking of drugs can present safety hazards. Section three focuses on prohibition of the use of illegal drugs at work and section four concentrates on the disciplinary sanctions that may be used against anyone breaching your rules; including dismissal. Section five provides information for employees on how to obtain professional help and counselling and section six retains your right to transfer an employee with a drug problem to an alternative role.