How do I implement a drug testing and screening programme?

Shipowners/employers working together with industry groups/trade unions and maritime training establishments can work effectively together to promote the concept of drug testing as an integral part of Health and Safety at Sea. Screening becomes acceptable when it is seen as an occupational health policy designed to prevent unnecessary risks to abusers and their colleagues in the workplace.

To successfully implement a drug screening and testing procedure you must first complete an education and consultation process with your workforce. Most companies have found that the vast majority of seafarers are supportive of drug education and testing programmes. Support is particularly strong amongst those who had had first hand experience of the problems that drugs can create on board ship. The minority who opposed the programme were mostly concerned about the possible infringement of human rights. Sensitive handling of these issues and the way that the programme is implemented can alleviate most of these concerns.

Drug testing by its nature is personal and must therefore be undertaken tactfully with appropriate concern for the rights of the individual crew member. It should be borne in mind that every test has the potential to have a profound effect on an individual's future and should therefore be carried out with care using internationally accepted procedures.