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TUC claims work drugs testing is "deeply disturbing"

It is "deeply disturbing" that some employers are using "spurious and arbitrary" drugs tests as a way of making people redundant during the recession.

This is the opinion of the Trades Union Congress (TUC) which believes that companies should not be permitted to do this and should have clear and easily understandable policies regarding drugs testing at work.

There should also be comprehendible redundancy policies which are made available to staff and negotiated with unions if possible.

General secretary of the TUC Brendan Barber said: "Any drug testing should be limited in use, proportionate – for example being needed on health and safety grounds – and accompanied by access to counselling and welfare programmes."

These comments have been made after Release revealed that it has seen an increase in the number of workers calling its helpline with regards to drug testing.

In the first quarter of 2009, 548 calls were received with 154 related to the issue.