Whether you are a Class 1 or Class 2 category, a pilot, a cabin crew member, an air traffic controller, or an aviation enthusiast seeking deeper insights into the industry's safety protocols, this information will provide you with the knowledge you need to navigate this vital aspect of aviation.
Why is drug and alcohol testing necessary – and why have a policy at all?
To ensure compliance with aviation regulations, such as the Air Navigation Order 2000, which was established under the Civil Aviation Act (1982), it is imperative that individuals involved in aviation-related roles, including crew members, air traffic controllers, and license maintenance engineers, are not impaired by drugs or alcohol. Regardless of whether you are Class 1 or Class 2, violating this regulation is considered an offense.
The Civil Aviation Publication 19 explicitly prohibits the following actions:
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Reporting to work while under the influence of alcohol, defined as having a blood alcohol level exceeding 0.02%.
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Consuming alcohol within 8 hours prior to the designated reporting time at the workplace.
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Reporting to work in any safety-critical area while under the influence of any prescription or non-prescription medication or drug, unless the individual is entirely certain that the medication or treatment will not negatively affect their ability to perform their duties safely.
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Consequently, airlines have a valid rationale for implementing rigorous drug and alcohol testing policies in order to uphold compliance and ensure the safety and effectiveness of aviation operations.
Our testing for the aviation industry includes:
Pre-employment testing
Before being employed, prospective pilots and crew members are required to undergo drug and alcohol testing as part of the recruitment process. This initial screening helps to ensure that individuals joining the industry are free from any substance abuse issues.
Random testing
Pilots and crew members are subject to random drug and alcohol testing throughout their employment. This means that at any given time, they may be selected for testing without prior notice. Random testing helps to deter substance abuse and maintain a high level of safety in aviation operations.
Post-incident testing
Following a significant incident or accident involving a helicopter or aircraft, the pilots and crew members involved may be required to undergo drug and alcohol testing. This is done to determine if substances played a role in the event and to assess the individuals' fitness for future duty.
Test types
Phosphatidylethanol (PEth) is a very specific alcohol biomarker and provides the highest sensitivity for the detection of current regular alcohol consumption. PEth testing is effective for detecting chronic and heavy drinking. PEth requires only a few drops of blood in the form of ‘dry blood spots’ that are taken for analysis at a laboratory.
A hair strand test is among the most accurate laboratory tests for drugs and alcohol – and is almost impossible to cheat. The method can be used to detect virtually all drug and alcohol substances, between seven days and six months after their use. Test results also indicate the month in which a donor ingested a substance and can therefore be used to build a ‘picture’ of substance use over time.
Sample collections anywhere in the UK – plus expert consultancy and HR support
We provide an expert sample-collection service through our 50+ trained collectors who are based across the UK. At home, on the airfield, in the hanger or at the office, we can collect samples at a time and place which is convenient for you. We also offer comprehensive training, so that HR or senior staff are confident and competent to perform sample collections in-house at your workplace/space or organisation.
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