What is Better Testing and how does it work for you?

If your organisation already carries out workplace drug and alcohol testing, there is a strong possibility that the system you are using is doing you a disservice and is not delivering the results you think it is.

Many businesses believe that simply having a testing programme in place means they are protected. In reality, outdated testing models often create risk rather than reduce it.

Traditional workplace drug and alcohol testing usually follows a rigid pattern. Someone is tested, a result comes back positive, and the immediate response is disciplinary action or dismissal.

This approach is often driven by fear, uncertainty, and a lack of understanding rather than by law or best practice. Over time, this creates a culture where employees are afraid to speak up, managers feel unsupported, and HR teams default to the harshest option because they believe there is no alternative.

The biggest problem I have witnessed with traditional testing methods is that they focus almost entirely on punishment. They very often do not consider context, individual circumstances, or long-term safety outcomes. Instead of reducing risk, this approach often drives problems underground.

The result? Employees hide issues, managers hesitate to act early out of fear of the reprecussions and businesses lose skilled workers who could have been supported safely and responsibly.

Better Testing was created as a response to these exact problems. It is a support-first workplace drug and alcohol testing model that still takes safety, compliance, and risk seriously.

Testing remains a key part of the process, especially in safety-critical environments, but it is no longer treated as a standalone or punitive tool. Instead, it forms part of a wider, structured framework designed to protect both the business and its people.

At its core, Better Testing brings together clear policies, practical procedures, education, and proportionate responses. Employees understand what testing is for and what will happen if a test result causes concern. Managers are trained and supported so they know how to respond calmly and consistently. HR teams have a clear pathway to follow, reducing panic decisions and increasing legal confidence.

When Better Testing is applied properly, a failed test does not automatically mean dismissal. The situation is assessed carefully, taking into account safety, impairment, role requirements, previous history, and the level of risk involved. In some cases, dismissal may still be appropriate, but it becomes a considered and justified decision rather than a knee-jerk reaction. In many other cases, structured support, temporary adjustments, or further assessment provide a better outcome for everyone involved.

Businesses that implement the Better Testing model often see measurable improvements. Accidents and near misses reduce because management are aware of the signs to look for, step in earlier and issues are addressed in a timely fashion. Staff retention improves because employees feel treated fairly. Legal and tribunal risks decrease because decisions are evidence-based and policy-led. Most importantly, workplace testing begins to function as a safety and risk management tool rather than a source of fear.

There is no legal requirement in the UK that says an employee must be dismissed simply for failing a drug or alcohol test. What the law does require is that employers act reasonably, proportionately, and in line with their own policies. Better Testing gives businesses a smarter and safer way to meet those responsibilities while building a stronger and more honest workplace culture.

If you are interested on how the Better Testing model would benefit you, reach out to one of the team here at FCI. We are happy to support you on making drug and alcohol testing work for you.

Dave