Tackling substance abuse in the workplace

Your policy should reflect that you're testing for current impairment, not lifestyle choices.  

By Rhys Evans, Managing Director at ALCO-Safe

Substance abuse in the workplace remains a pressing issue across South Africa’s industries, particularly those where safety and heavy machinery intersect. Juanita Pienaar sat down with Rhys Evans, Managing Director of ALCO-Safe, to explore how companies are navigating this challenge and what solutions are helping them stay compliant and safe.

Zero tolerance: A strategic imperative

“Safety is paramount in sectors like mining, manufacturing, and logistics,” says Rhys Evans. “When workers operate heavy equipment or enter hazardous zones, any impairment - even slight - can have devastating consequences.” It’s this risk that compels many companies to adopt a zero-tolerance approach to alcohol and drug use on the job.

But Evans cautions that enforcement needs to be fair and consistent. “Employers need to have a clearly defined policy, enforce it uniformly, and use objective tools like breathalysers and drug testing to eliminate guesswork,” he explains. “A well-written substance abuse policy is essential. Without it, companies open themselves to legal disputes.”

He highlights that ALCO-Safe’s solutions aim to support businesses in both detection and compliance. From high-tech breathalysers to passive alcohol sensors and saliva-based drug testing kits, the technology has evolved to make testing both accurate and less invasive.

A shift in testing trends

Evans points out a clear trend in the industry: a move from urine-based to saliva-based drug testing. “Urine testing has a longer detection window but is considered intrusive and requires special facilities. Saliva testing, on the other hand, can be done anywhere, is less invasive, and results come back quickly,” he notes.

He adds that while the window of detection for saliva is shorter, typically up to 48 hours, this aligns better with workplace safety goals. “We’re not trying to police what people do in their private time. We want to ensure they’re not impaired at work.”

Legal landmines and policy gaps

According to Evans, a poorly constructed policy is one of the biggest pitfalls companies face. “We often see companies with policies that are either too vague or don’t align with their testing protocols. For instance, they might have a zero-tolerance policy but use tests that detect trace amounts of substances long after impairment has passed.”

He stresses the importance of aligning testing methods with policy intent. “If you're using saliva tests that show recent use, your policy should reflect that you're testing for current impairment, not lifestyle choices.”

Evans also notes that a lack of employee education can lead to resistance. “People need to understand the why behind the policy. If they think it’s punitive, they’ll push back. But if they understand it’s about safety, for them and their colleagues, they’re more likely to support it.”

A layered approach to compliance

ALCO-Safe works with companies across a wide spectrum of industries, from transportation and mining to manufacturing and construction. According to Evans, successful substance abuse management requires a layered approach. “It’s not just about testing. It’s about training, communication, and consistent application.”

He advises that companies regularly review and update their policies. “What was acceptable five years ago might be outdated now. The legal landscape changes, testing technology evolves, and employee expectations shift.”

Evans also recommends third-party audits of workplace policies and procedures. “An external review can identify gaps you might miss. It’s about continuous improvement.”

Technology meets accountability

As the technology improves, companies are turning to digital systems for tracking and compliance. “We’ve introduced systems that record test results directly into a digital database,” Evans says. “This allows companies to monitor trends, flag repeat offenders, and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.”

He adds that this digital transformation isn’t just about record-keeping. “It also helps in defending against legal challenges. When you have a consistent, documented process, it’s easier to prove that you’re treating all employees fairly.”

The role of automation is also growing. “Some of our clients have integrated testing into access control systems. If an employee doesn’t pass a breathalyser, they don’t gain entry. It’s seamless, and it reduces the potential for human error.”

Looking ahead

As South African companies continue to prioritise workplace safety, the emphasis on effective, fair substance abuse policies is only set to grow. For Evans, the mission is clear: “Our goal is not to catch people out. It’s to create safer workplaces.”

He concludes with a powerful reminder: “One accident caused by impairment can cost lives, reputations, and livelihoods. A strong policy, backed by the right tools and training, is not a luxury, it’s a necessity.”

In an era of heightened accountability and increasing safety standards, tools like those provided by ALCO-Safe are no longer optional. They’re the backbone of responsible, modern operations.