New policy means drug tests

Testing - usually of urine specimens - will be undertaken confidentially at Rotorua Lakes Council by a registered medical practitioner or The Drug Detection Agency.

All Rotorua Lakes Council staff will soon be subject to a new Drug and Alcohol Policy after consultation with staff and unions.

The policy will come into place on April 6 and is the first comprehensive drug and alcohol testing regime to be put in place at the council.

The council's People and Capability manager Richard Bird said the policy was not just about enforcement. "It also provides for support and assistance for staff members who may have alcohol or drug problems".

The policy will apply to all staff and contractors undertaking council business and will cost about $7500 to set up with urine testing for drugs and alcohol costing around $40 per test.

"It includes provision for testing after an incident or accident - when there is reasonable cause - prior to employment, and random or periodic testing in some instances," Mr Bird said.

"Having a drug and alcohol policy is regarded as good employment practice for workforces today, particularly in support of the objective of providing safe work environments for employees and for customers."

He said the council did have a good safety record when it came to drugs and alcohol but needed to adapt to the times and the "ever growing risks in the fast-changing environment we live in today, so the new policy provides more currency, and increased protection and support".

Testing - usually of urine specimens - will be undertaken confidentially by a registered medical practitioner or The Drug Detection Agency.

The tests will cover legal and illicit drugs, and alcohol, at levels likely to cause impairment and will comply with the combined Australian and New Zealand Standard.

Work on developing the policy was undertaken by council staff.

The Drug Detection Agency (TDDA), a recognised expert in the field, has been contracted to provide training and to undertake the testing. TDDA has an office in Rotorua providing similar services to other employers.