Alcohol and Drug Policy - Quality Waste

QualityWaste Ltd – UK Waste Management Services
Effective Date: 2 June 2025

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1. Policy Statement

At QualityWaste Ltd, we are committed to maintaining a safe, healthy, and productive workplace. The misuse of alcohol or drugs can impair judgement, reduce safety, and impact the quality of our waste management services. This policy outlines our position on substance misuse and forms part of our duty under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.

This Alcohol and Drug Policy applies to all employees, contractors, agency workers, drivers, and visitors operating on behalf of QualityWaste Ltd or while present at our premises or job sites.

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2. Objectives

• Ensure safety for all staff, clients, and members of the public.
• Promote employee health and well-being.
• Prevent alcohol or drug-related incidents in the workplace.
• Comply with UK laws and waste industry regulations.

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3. Scope

This policy covers:

• The possession, use, or distribution of alcohol, illegal drugs, or controlled substances while working.
• The misuse of prescription or over-the-counter medication.
• Staff reporting for duty under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Alcohol and drug use during work hours, on-site, in company vehicles, or while representing QualityWaste.

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4. Prohibited Conduct

You must not:

• Be under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs, or substances while at work.
• Consume alcohol or drugs during working hours or on company premises.
• Possess, distribute, or sell drugs or alcohol in the workplace.
• Drive or operate machinery if impaired by substances.

Note: Employees using prescribed medication must inform their manager if the medication may affect their ability to safely perform their duties.

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5. Testing and Investigation

We reserve the right to carry out drug and alcohol testing:

• Pre-employment
• Randomly (especially for safety-critical roles)
• Post-incident or near-miss
• Where there is reasonable suspicion

Refusal to submit to testing may be treated as a disciplinary matter.

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6. Support for Employees

We recognise that substance misuse is a treatable condition. Employees who voluntarily seek help will be supported and referred to appropriate resources or occupational health services where possible.

Confidentiality will be maintained at all times.

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7. Disciplinary Action

Breach of this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal for gross misconduct, particularly where safety is compromised or legal obligations are breached.

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8. Legal Compliance

This policy supports compliance with:

• Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
• Misuse of Drugs Act 1971
• Road Traffic Act 1988
• Railways and Transport Safety Act 2003 (where applicable)

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9. Review and Updates

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if required by changes in legislation or operational needs.

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10. Contact Information

If you have questions about this policy, contact:

QualityWaste Ltd
Email: info@qualitywaste.co.uk
Website: https://www.qualitywaste.co.uk