The use of drugs, particularly at mining operations in Africa, has become a matter of growing concern, largely because of their availability and the fact that they are often far cheaper than alcohol.

“Additionally, ease of access to prescription drugs in some [African] countries fuels this problem. Unfortunately, not many health and safety officers are aware of this if it is not picked up – even if drug tests are conducted – as the common drug tests are limited to certain drugs and chemicals such as cannabis,” says supplier of drug and alcohol testing equipment ALCO-Safe director Rhys Evans tells Mining Weekly.

He explains that the abuse of prescription drugs in the mining industry is increasingly becoming a challenge, which can have a significant negative impact on employees on a mine site.

There are a number of prescription drugs, he adds, that incorporate opiates and include effects such as a reduction in pain and sedation.

“They depress the central nervous system, slow down body functioning and reduce physical and psychological pain. They are also highly addictive. It is essential for mining companies to ensure their testing extends to drugs as well as prescription drugs that can be obtained illegally on the black market and without a prescription,” Evans says.

The Mine Health and Safety Act regulates the mining industry along with the Operational Health and Safety Act (OHSA), whose General Safety Regulation 2A states that every employer has a duty to stop persons from entering or remaining at work if they appear to be
under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs.

Drugs commonly abused, he says, include a category called methamphetamines, also known as speed, with the street names of Tik, Ecstacy, MDMA and Khat.

“Marijuana is also used prevalently by mineworkers but a new, dangerous drug called Nyaope is becoming increasingly popular. It comprises a mixture of third-grade heroin, marijuana and sometimes even antiretroviral drugs and is smoked in order to achieve a ‘high’ or hallucinogenic effect,” Evans explains.

Further, he says, it is highly addictive, has dangerous side effects and significantly impairs a person’s judgment and ability to work.

Evans cites that many prescription drugs for flu and coughs include substances such as codeine, an opioid pain medication that can induce a ‘high’.

Other prescription drugs, such as tranquilisers, include benzodiazepines that can impact on a person’s ability to work, as a common side effect is sleepiness.

“There is often a false perception that if a drug is prescribed by a doctor, it is completely safe and won’t impact on a person’s ability to work,” he says.

He adds that mining houses can make use of the 6- or 10-panel drug test, which includes the detection of pharmaceutical substances found in prescription drugs such as Ritalin, Rohypnol and Oxycontin – common drugs that are abused.

The 10-panel drug test also includes detection of opiates, cocaine, marijuana, methamphetamine, benzodiazepines, tricyclic antidepressants, barbiturates, phencyclidine, amphetamines and methadone.

Evans explains that mining companies are not obliged by law to send mineworkers with addiction problems to rehabilitation centres, but many mining houses issue written warnings for first-time offenders and assist them to get help.

“The purpose of alcohol and drug testing is not to dismiss staff but rather ensure a safe work environment for all,” he concludes.