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Companies can't ignore drink and drug policies

With extended licensing hours adding to concerns about employees who drive for work, RoSPA has produced new guidelines encouraging companies to have policies in place to help manage the problems of drink and drug driving.

The Society's Driving for Work : Drink and Drugs document is backed by the DfT and includes a sample policy to help bosses tackle the problem. It covers raising awareness, screening, training and notifying employers about drink or drug-related accidents.

"With the advent of 24-hour licensing, there are serious worries that people will still be over the limit the 'morning after', particularly around Christmas and New Year," said Kevin Clinton , RoSPA head of road safety. "It is not just a seasonal subject, it is something employers need to address all-year-round.

"Driving is the most dangerous work activity that most people do. Drink-drive deaths are at their highest since 1992 and there are growing fears about drug-related accidents. Employers cannot ignore these subjects.

"All staff, including senior managers and line managers, must understand that they must not drive for work if their ability to do so is affected by alcohol, drugs or medicines. Doing so should be a serious disciplinary matter."

For further information visit: http://www.rospa.com

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