Page 1546 - Xmo Strata - Bulletin Archive

Health, Safety & Environmental Bulletin No 577

20 July 2017

Drug and Alcohol Testing

Alcohol and drugs in UK construction industry were placed under the spotlight by the Considerate
Constructors Scheme after a survey revealed that 59% of people working across the industry have
concerns over the effects of drugs and alcohol on the industry.

A survey of over 1300 people working across the industry discovered that 59% have concerns over the effects
of drugs and alcohol in construction, yet 65% have never been tested for drugs and alcohol.

The survey, which was conducted by the Considerate Constructors Scheme in May 2016 also revealed that:

• 39% admitted the issue of drugs or alcohol could be better tackled in their workplace
• 35% have noticed their colleagues under the influence of drugs and alcohol
• 25% agreed drugs or alcohol affected them at work through tiredness
• 23% agreed it affected them through decreased attention during work
• 19% agreed the effects made them less productive at work.

At Xmo Strata, we accept the responsibility we are empowered with by our clients to ensure that our
employees and fit and able to complete the work we undertake in a safe manner. We have conducted
random drug and alcohol testing on our employees for several years and this year tested office staff
for the first time. This month, we sent four employees to a specialist training facility and they are now
certified to conduct Alcohol and Drug Testing on any Xmo Strata employee or sub-contractor.

The training included consent documentation, testing protocols for alcohol, amphetamines,
barbiturates, benzodiazepines, cannabis, cocaine and crack cocaine, ketamine, khat (plant), MDMA
(including ecstasy), methadone, opiates, phencyclidine (PCP, angel dust) and propoxyphene
(painkillers).

In the event of a non-negative result, the training also covered the chain of custody process and the
associated documentation.

We are delighted to confirm that none of our employees have ever tested positive for any of the
substances detailed and are committed to ensuring that testing of both site and office staff continues.

We are all a product of learning. Every skill we have; everything we know; everything we believe and everything we do has
been learned throughout the course of our lives. Some of us learn best by studying graphs and charts, some through visual
presentations, and some by reading detailed text books. It is important that we receive information in a format that works for
us as individuals! That’s why at Xmo Strata we use a variety of communication platforms such as bulletins, newsletters,
videos etc. However, if you feel there is a better way for us to share health and safety information, please let us know.
Ultimately, your safety is in your hands – but we will do all we can to keep you well informed!