Our Ref: HSR/1/1
Head Office Circular: NP/160/16
25th May 2016
The Secretary
ALL BRANCHES
ALL REGIONAL COUNCILS
Dear Colleague
NETWORK RAIL – DRUG AND ALCOHOL TESTING DONCASTER DU
Reports have been received of a mass drug and alcohol test that has been carried out at Doncaster DU. An anonymous and unsupported allegation of cocaine abuse being “rife” in the Doncaster area was received by the company. Testing went ahead despite concerns being raised by RMT representatives. On considering a report into the incident the National Executive Committee have noted and adopted the following report of their Health and Safety Sub-committee:
We note with concern the events at Doncaster DU on 18th May 2016 and congratulate our representatives on their efforts on behalf of our members on the day. We do not accept that Network Rail’s heavy handed approach is the way to deal with reports of this kind. There is further evidence that bulk testing has taken place elsewhere. General Secretary is instructed to raise our concerns on the company’s approach to ‘for cause’ testing as a matter of urgency.
Branches and Regional Councils be advised.
I am acting in accordance with this instruction. Please bring the contents of this circular to the attention of relevant members.
Yours sincerely
Mick Cash
General Secretary