Gigaclear Ltd Case Study and Testimonial

1. Challenge

During a review prompted by rapid expansion, Gigaclear recognised that drug and alcohol use may be an issue across the utilities and telecommunications industry posing a significant risk to workplace and community safety. This concern became increasingly important amid strong headcount growth and occasional related incidents and associated ‘reactive ‘For Cause’ testing.

Led by HSEQ Director, Todd Hallam – Gigaclear’s Executive team was supportive in implementing a robust Drug and Alcohol Policy and establishing a framework for screening and testing procedures whilst ensuring a positive company culture was maintained.

Through this process Gigaclear needed a solution that would support their workforce whilst effectively mitigating the risks associated with substance use.

3. Benefit

The partnership with D.tec International delivered multiple advantages for Gigaclear. The positive engagement, responsive support and easy-to-use testing products simplified training for staff administering tests. Todd’s decision to utilise D.tec was their credibility as a supplier of roadside drug screening kits to UK police forces assuring legitimacy. The HSEQ Director’s leadership helped secure Executive Team support overcoming, in the early stages of discussions, some initial concern and resistance.

Gigaclear’s program has comprehensively and effectively addressed an overlooked safety risk in an industry that has been focused on physical risks and hazards and importantly, the open-door policy and support program has created an assistance path for employees ensuring Non-Negative (Positive) outcomes do not always end up in an employee losing their job.

2. Solution

Gigaclear partnered with D.tec International to implement a comprehensive drug and alcohol strategy. The process included using D.tec’s expertise to compile a robust policy and train Gigaclear staff to administer tests properly. The DrugWipe Dual and Drager Alcometer products were selected for pre-employment screening during induction and regular ongoing employee testing. Gigaclear created a communication strategy informing employees about upcoming screenings and they established an open-door policy for voluntary disclosure of illegal drug use and medication declarations along with rehabilitation programs offering counselling and ongoing monitoring. Pre-employment testing and random screening is focused on individuals that undertake high risk activities and public interfacing roles including fleet drivers, plant operators, work at height and field based workers that utilise tools and equipment.

4. Result

Gigaclear’s comprehensive drug and alcohol policy and testing program has yielded remarkable outcomes. The first round of major screening revealed Non-Negative (Positive) results, validating the need for regular and increased testing. By the second and subsequent rounds, the Non-Negative rate dropped significantly demonstrating the policy’s deterrent and control effect and, the pre-employment screening naturally filtered out at-risk candidates.

Whilst there have been many successes through Gigaclear’s Drug and Alcohol program one in particular stands out where an employee, aware of the screening and risk of detection, voluntarily disclosed their drug use and was immediately supported and put into a rehabilitation and regular screening. He subsequently became substance-free, evidenced through an individual random testing program, and now has a huge improvement in work productivity, home life and personal relationships.

The Drug and Alcohol initiative instigated and driven by Todd has strengthened Gigaclear’s safety culture, addressing a risk that needs to be fully and effectively addressed across the industry. Despite the many challenges, through collaborative working between Todd’s team, Gigaclear’s HR Department and the support of the Executive Team and Dtec International, assurance is demonstrated of Gigaclear’s commitment to their workforce and members of the public safety and protection.

Want a downloadable copy of this case study?

Click here