Compact New Drug Testing Solution to Protect Workers in Utilities Sector

One of the leading manufacturers in safety technology, Dräger, is expanding its drug testing portfolio for the utilities sector, with the launch of its DrugCheck 3000.

With decades of experience in the fields of drug and alcohol testing, Dräger compliments its wide portfolio of oral drug testing equipment for the sector with the new screening device.

The launch follows a successful year for Dräger in the field of diagnostics, with Dräger’s DrugTest 5000 becoming one of the only pieces of equipment to be Type Approved for the testing of cocaine and cannabis by police, at the roadside.

The new DrugCheck 3000 has been designed to test for impairment, as opposed to historical drug use, in up to five banned substances. This means a clear focus on making sure workers are fit and safe to work in the safety critical construction environment. In a fast-paced and often hazardous environment, it does so quickly and cost effectively.

Not having a robust drug and alcohol testing policy in place can have major implications for employers from a legal, financial and reputation perspective.

The disposable kit employs the testing principle of the Type Approved DrugTest 5000 system, which is used by many police forces and workplaces around the country under new drug drive laws. The DrugCheck 3000 can reliably test even minute traces of cannabis – the drug consumed most frequently – which has the compound most diffcult to detect (THC).

Andrew Lowdon, Marketing Manager for Impairment and Sales Channel Partners at Dräger, said: “We’re delighted to announce the launch of the latest addition to our drug and alcohol testing portfolio for the utilities industry – the DrugCheck 3000.

“It takes the principles of Dräger’s renowned diagnostics range and proven technology, in a simple, mobile piece of equipment, which can be used safely on any site and in hazardous areas.”

Within minutes, the DrugCheck 3000 shows if a person has drugs in his or her system. The compact saliva-based test yields reliable results and is easy-to-use. It doesn’t require electricity and can be used anywhere, making ‘on-the-go’ testing quick and convenient.

Substance misuse is thought to cost the UK economy billions of pounds a year and the DrugCheck 3000 will help to combat what can be a major problem for businesses leading to rising absenteeism, reduced productivity as well as an increased risk of accidents.

Andrew continued: “We’re finding more and more companies are realising that with the right equipment, screening for drugs and alcohol can be a very simple and unobtrusive process. It’s worth remembering that employees who are impaired through the influence of drugs not only put their own health at risk, but also increase the risk of accidents involving others and machinery, with far-reaching consequences for the company.

“We’re committed to supporting the duty of care employers have for their staff, and, with the DrugCheck 3000 and our full range of diagnostics solutions, we can offer a robust means of detecting and reducing substance abuse for a safer workplace.”

The DrugCheck 3000 consists of two easy-to-use components – a swab for obtaining a saliva sample and a test cassette for the analysis. It can test for cocaine, opiates, amphetamine, methamphetamine and cannabis.