scope:

This business process:

a) sets out the drugs and alcohol principles for all Network Rail employees, prospective candidates and contractors working for or on behalf of Network Rail;

b) includes requirements and guidance for drug and alcohol testing;

c) identifies, through drugs and alcohol testing, any employee or contractor who has attended work whilst under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol;

d) encourages employees who misuse drugs (prescribed, over the counter and illegal) and/or alcohol to seek help;

e) discourages employees or contractors who are unfit due to drugs and/or alcohol from attending work and endangering colleagues and passengers;

f) outlines processes for determining any breaches of this standard.

This business process applies to all Network Rail employees, prospective candidates, contractors, the supply chain and anyone who works for or on behalf of Network Rail. 

It does not apply to:

g) visitors (non-Network Rail employees/contractors visiting a Network Rail work place) and contractors that are on a Network Rail site to repair or maintain Network Rail property or equipment;

h) contractors working on projects which have been classified as High Street Environment (as per the definition in the Network Rail HSMS) in line with NR/L3/OHS/005. Contractors working on such projects are required to work in line with legislation. 

Purpose 

This business process controls the risk of Network Rail employees, contractors, supply chain and anyone who works for or on behalf of Network Rail, working while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. 

The implementation of controls under this business process is the means by which Network Rail and its contractors meet the legal requirements specified in Transport and Works Act 1992 to prevent the commission of offences involving drink or drugs on Network Rail managed infrastructure. It prevents the recruitment of individuals who misuse drugs and alcohol and allows all testing for drugs and alcohol to be fairly managed. 

Other than where alternatives are specifically noted, contractors should have arrangements in place to comply with this standard which are equivalent to those specified within this document.