Barnsley Council considers random drug testing

Barnsley Council cabinet members are due to vote on implementing a random drug and alcohol testing policy for employees.

The test was proposed by a council report, entitled Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy, which claimed the move would protect both employees and customers.

The report said: “The council is committed to providing a safe and healthy work environment for its employees, customers and visitors.

Councillor Alan Gardiner, cabinet spokesperson for corporate services, said: “The misuse of alcohol or drugs could affect not only an employee’s work performance, but also their health and personal life.

“As a council we are committed to protecting the health of our staff and we will operate a zero-tolerance policy on the abuse of drugs or alcohol that will impact on an employee during the working day.”