Chamber Events Multi-Chamber Manufacturers Group Get Serious about Employee Drug Use D rug use amongst employees is a growing concern for manufacturing businesses in Thailand. Aside from the obvious workplace health and safety issues, drug use and possession is a serious offense. In response to growing addictions, the Thai Government has implemented a strict Drug Testing Protocol. It allows local officials and enforcement personnel to conduct random, unannounced drug testing in both Thai and Foreign manufacturing companies that are under reasonable suspicion of employing drug-users. This can pose major disruptions to factory operations and result in staff absences for those who test positive. It also presents a moral dilemma for company executives in dealing with drug users. In recognising the magnitude of this issue, AustCham facilitated its first meeting for the Multi-Chamber Manufacturers Group (MMG) on 17 January at the Marriot Hotel in Pattaya. With a focus on knowledge sharing and addressing common industry issues, the first MMG attracted professionals from more than 20 manufacturing companies operating across Thailand. Ben Mitchel, Managing Director of ARB, spoke candidly about his recent experience with the Thai Government’s Drug Testing Protocol. ARB, a world leader in off-road accessories design, was unexpectedly approached by local authorities to undergo random drug testing after allegations about possible illegal drug dealing within the company’s premises. What at first seemed like a daunting experience, proved worthwhile in allowing ARB to address the issue head-on. All employees, including senior management, underwent drug testing without prior notice. Of the 290 employees, 37 (12.75 per cent) tested positive to ‘ya-baa’, a popular methamphetamine. Although this figure was lower than expected, ARB have contin- 12 March 2014 ued to carry-out random drug-testing each month. They also offered rehabilitation to those employees who tested positive on a first occasion. Khun Malai Tongkum, Assistant District Chief Officer in the Pluak Daeng District, joined the MMG to provide further insight into government policies. The Drug Testing Protocol allows local officials and enforcement personnel to conduct random, unannounced drug testing in both Thai and Foreign manufacturing companies that are under reasonable suspicion of employing drug-users. During the tests, all employees are searched and tested for illegal drugs. Those found to be carrying drugs are arrested on the spot, while those who test positive are removed from the premises and offered rehabilitation. Since on-the-spot urine tests are not 100 per cent accurate, employees who test positive have the right to request a secondary drug test at a local medical facil- ity. If however the subsequent test proves positive, the individual is charged with a criminal offense. Khun Malai emphasised that cooperation with local authorities is highly recommended. ”If you suspect anyone of dealing, holding or using illegal drugs in and around your premises you should contact local authorities directly” Khun Malai said. The authorities will deal with the matter in accordance with Thai law. If no criminal charges are laid, i.e. drug testing proves positive but no drugs are found on the person, it is up to the company’s discretion and employment policy of how to proceed further. For more information about the topic and the MMG, please contact the MMG facilitators and representatives, Neal Brazel (Bladerunner Consulting Asia Co. Ltd) at [email protected] or Trevor Dick (Australasia Holdings Ltd) at [email protected] . AustChamThailand Advance