Request ID: FOI-3633-2324 Date published: 26 January 2024
You asked
Can you provide me with information on blood tests at London Underground. If a person declares a drug or drink addiction and goes through rehabilitation provided by LU. Will they be randomly expected to provide blood for testing where unsatisfactory performance is noted?
We answered
TfL Ref: FOI-3633-2324
Thank you for your request received by Transport for London (TfL) on11 January 2024 asking for information about drug and alcohol testing.
Your request has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act and our information access policy. I can confirm that we hold the information you require. TfL is committed to maintaining a safe and healthy working environment.
The safety of employees and customers is of paramount importance. A major factor in this respect is the ability of those who work for us to carry out their jobs safely, effectively and to the best of their ability. Therefore TfL operates a zero-tolerance approach to alcohol and/or drug use to minimise any safety risks to customers and its employees. Standards have been set for employees detailing the requirements and responsibilities regarding alcohol and/or drugs, to ensure that their work performance is not affected in any way by their consumption. Any employee who is taking medication has a responsibility under the company's Drugs and Work Standard to check with their doctor (or other medical practitioner); dentist or pharmacist if the medication they are taking could reduce vigilance or adversely affect their work performance.
TfL is committed to supporting employees who come forward to the Drugs and Alcohol Assessment Treatment Service (DAATS) or to their line manager with an alcohol and/or drugs related problem. DAATS was established to provide assistance for employees who are experiencing problems with alcohol and/or drugs with the aim of returning them safely back to the workplace, while ensuring they do not pose a risk to the safe operation of the transport network. When an alcohol and/or drug use problem occurs, employees will be given reasonable support and advice in dealing with the problem. If an employee fails to inform DAATS or their line manager before a breach of this policy, TfL is unlikely to afford any additional support and appropriate action will be taken through the disciplinary procedure.
Specifically you asked:
“Can you provide me with information on blood tests at London Underground. If a person declares a drug or drink addiction and goes through rehabilitation provided by LU. Will they be randomly expected to provide blood for testing where unsatisfactory performance is noted?”
An employee who has attended rehabilitation provided by TfL/LU may be asked to attend a random blood test as part of the contractual obligations related to safety. Any unsatisfactory performances may or may not be related to safety. The blood test can identify risk, ensuring safety.
Please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal.
Yours sincerely,
Mary Abidakun FOI Case Officer FOI Case Management Team General Counsel Transport for London
