Workplace oral drug tests go on trial

Railtrack
contractor C Spencer is to introduce a new oral drug testing procedure for
staff which is faster and more efficient than previous techniques.

The
Lincolnshire-based firm, specialising in bridge construction and projects for
the transport and marine industries, has started a three-month trial of the
oral fluid testing technique, developed by Altrix Healthcare, with a view to
replace the traditional method of urine sampling.

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Spencer’s
risk manager Andy Merrison, said: "The trial has been a great success and
we shall be using the new procedures on an ongoing basis. The sampling is a lot
faster and as a non-invasive procedure, it preserves the individual’s dignity.
We did not appreciate just how intrusive urine testing was for our
employees."

By Ben Willmott