Why do I need a Drug and Alcohol Policy?
Having policies and procedures in place to manage the risks associated with drug and alcohol use by your workers (employees, contractors, volunteers, casual staff, and anyone conducting work for or on behalf of you at any location or in your vehicles being used for work purposes) is an important part of your business’ responsibility to manage health and safety risks.
This Drug and Alcohol Policy sets out a framework for reducing the potential harm of drug and alcohol use in the workplace and provides guidance to managers on testing requirements and disciplinary processes. It also outlines when a worker may be required to undertake a drug and/or alcohol test, the process for the testing, and what action may result.
Drug and alcohol testing and disciplinary processes are risky matters, so it is important that you and your managers understand the steps that must be followed in these circumstances.
As testing involves the collection of personal information, this policy will also help ensure that any privacy obligations are complied with.
How long will it take to create a Drug and Alcohol Policy?
Less than 5 minutes – less time than making a coffee! During the Q&A you can save your progress to come back later, or repeat the Q&A to change an answer or produce a new version of a document.
What do I do once my Drug and Alcohol Policy is created?
The policy is ready for you to approve and use as soon as you download it. An employer is required to consult with its employees before implementing any workplace policy. We recommend advising your employees (in writing) of the proposed policy (and its proposed start date), providing a copy of the policy, and specifying a time period for your employees to provide feedback/input or raise concerns. After that, the policy can be introduced. This policy includes an option to create a separate consultation letter to provide this information to your employees.
Other helpful information:
- If you would like to speak to a lawyer regarding your policy (or for any other legal queries), please see our specialist employment law firm partner Edwards Law here
- You may also find these bundles or documents useful for your business: Individual Employment Agreement, Employment Essentials, Key Employment Policies and Independent Contractor Agreement
- Check out our FAQs
If you’re unsure whether this policy is what you need, reach out to us at hello@onyourterms.co.nz – we’re happy to help!
This product has been prepared in collaboration with our employment law content partner, Edwards Law.
If you’re not satisfied with your purchase of this product for any reason, let us know why within 10 days of your purchase and we’ll work with you to make sure you’re happy, including giving you a full refund if necessary.
Disclaimer: On Your Terms was created to provide fast, easy and affordable access to legal information and documentation. We are not a law firm and do not provide legal advice. The information and documents we provide are of a general nature, designed for common situations, and may not be suitable for your needs or circumstances. If you need legal advice, we have a network of specialist law firm partners able to help you here.