1: Introduction

1.1 Policy Overview
United Civils Limited is committed to ensuring a safe, healthy, and productive workplace, free from the risks associated with alcohol, drugs, and other intoxicating substances. This Policy sets out the company’s position regarding the use and misuse of intoxicants by employees, contractors, and visitors.

1.2 Statement of Intent
The presence of alcohol or drugs in the workplace can significantly impair safety, decision-making, and performance. United Civils Limited has a zero-tolerance approach to working under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances and will take appropriate action to manage any breaches.

2: Purpose

2.1 Objectives of the Policy
This Policy aims to:

2.1.1 Protect the health and safety of all personnel, subcontractors, and the public.
2.1.2 Prevent accidents and incidents related to substance misuse.
2.1.3 Support a culture of personal responsibility and accountability.
2.1.4 Provide procedures for managing suspected breaches or misuse sensitively and fairly.

3: Scope

3.1 Applicability
This Policy applies to all employees, subcontractors, agency staff, and visitors at all United Civils Limited offices, sites, vehicles, and project locations.

3.2 Substances Covered
This Policy applies to:

3.2.1 Alcohol.
3.2.2 Illegal drugs.
3.2.3 Legal drugs used in a manner not consistent with prescribed or over-the-counter instructions.
3.2.4 Psychoactive substances (including “legal highs”).
3.2.5 Solvents or other intoxicating agents.

4: Policy Requirements

4.1 Prohibition of Alcohol and Drug Use

4.1.1 No individual shall report for work or remain at work under the influence of alcohol or any intoxicating substance.
4.1.2 Consumption or possession of alcohol or drugs on any United Civils Limited site, in vehicles, or in welfare areas is strictly prohibited.

4.2 Prescription Medication

4.2.1 Employees taking prescribed or over-the-counter medication that may impair their ability to work safely must inform their line manager.
4.2.2 Confidentiality will be maintained, and reasonable adjustments may be made where possible.

4.3 Random and For-Cause Testing

4.3.1 United Civils Limited reserves the right to carry out alcohol and/or drug testing:

• On a random basis (where appropriate for site safety).

• Following a workplace incident or near-miss.

• Where there is reasonable suspicion of intoxication.

4.3.2 Refusal to comply with testing, tampering with samples, or failure of a test may lead to disciplinary action, including removal from site and possible dismissal.

4.4 Search and Inspection

4.4.1 Where there is reasonable cause, United Civils Limited may conduct a search of vehicles or personal belongings on site, in line with legal rights and respect for dignity.
4.4.2 Illegal substances found will be reported to the police.

4.5 Visitors and Third Parties

4.5.1 Visitors, clients, and subcontractors are also required to comply with this Policy while on site.
4.5.2 Individuals in breach may be refused access or permanently excluded from sites.

5: Roles and Responsibilities

5.1 Managing Director – Scott Bland

5.1.1 Holds ultimate accountability for the enforcement of this Policy.
5.1.2 Supports disciplinary procedures and ensures alignment with health and safety management.

5.2 HSEQ Consultants – SEHSS Limited

5.2.1 Acts as the Competent Person for advice on substance misuse and workplace safety.
5.2.2 Oversees the administration of testing and investigates reported concerns.
5.2.3 Provides training, awareness materials, and policy review.

5.3 Supervisors and Line Managers

5.3.1 Must remain vigilant for signs of substance misuse and take prompt action if concerns arise.
5.3.2 Must refer incidents to Kevin Sanders or Scott Bland as appropriate.

5.4 All Employees and Subcontractors

5.4.1 Must not attend work under the influence of intoxicants.
5.4.2 Are responsible for reporting concerns about colleagues in confidence.
5.4.3 Must cooperate with any testing or investigation as required.

6: Support and Rehabilitation

6.1 Voluntary Disclosure

6.1.1 Employees who voluntarily disclose a dependency issue before any incident occurs will be treated with empathy.
6.1.2 Where feasible, United Civils Limited may support a return-to-work plan, time off for treatment, or signposting to support services.

6.2 External Support Resources

United Civils Limited encourages the use of external support such as:

• NHS addiction services

• Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)

• Narcotics Anonymous (NA)

• GP-referred counselling or treatment plans

7: Disciplinary Measures

7.1 Any breach of this Policy may result in:

7.1.1 Immediate removal from site.
7.1.2 Formal disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal for gross misconduct.
7.1.3 Termination of contracts for subcontractors.
7.1.4 Notification to the police in the case of illegal substances.

7.2 Each case will be considered individually, ensuring fairness and consistency in line with the company’s disciplinary procedures.

8: Training and Awareness

8.1 Awareness of this Policy will be included in staff inductions and site briefings.
8.2 Toolbox talks and refresher briefings will reinforce expectations and warning signs.
8.3 Managers will receive training on handling disclosures, reasonable suspicion, and incidents.

9: Policy Review

9.1 This Policy will be reviewed annually or following any incidents, legal changes, or lessons learned.
9.2 Reviews will be led by SEHSS Limited and signed off by Scott Bland.
9.3 Any revisions will be communicated to all staff, subcontractors, and relevant third parties.

10: Legal and Regulatory Considerations

10.1 This Policy complies with the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, and guidance from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
10.2 It also supports the principles of ISO 45001:2018, particularly in hazard control and wellbeing promotion.