This information paper provides general guidance and recommendations for the maritime industry in developing and implementing controls for drugs and alcohol. It gives guidance on developing a drug and alcohol policy, where operators can refer for standards, and suggestions for effective procedures onboard, aligned with standards and policies.
It covers workplace testing but does not address testing associated with the treatment and recovery of identified substance dependency cases, nor return to work testing. The information paper will be of interest to Human Resources and Health Safety Security and Environment professionals, and personnel responsible for developing and implementing a policy and ensuring any relevant standards and procedures are followed. It replaces OCIMF’s Guidelines for the Control of Drug and Alcohol Onboard Ship (first edition, 1995). The second edition was withdrawn in 2020.