How Falck works with PEth tests

There has been a debate in the media regarding PEth tests and how elevated test values have been handled and sent to the Swedish Transport Agency. As a result, individuals have had their driving licences revoked. At Falck, we perform PEth tests on behalf of employers. This occurs, for example, during new employment check-ups and statutory medical check-ups.

Why an employer wants to perform these tests on employees or candidates can have different purposes. Most often, it is about safety in the workplaces and the health of employees.

Elevated peth test values

If an employee or candidate shows an elevated PEth value on a single test, we at Falck do not perform any follow-up, other than to the employer if the person who provided the sample has given consent.

A single elevated PEth value is never reported to the Swedish Transport Agency. It requires a more comprehensive process and only occurs in connection with a rehabilitation or alcohol case where the individual is followed up over time and has taken several tests.

"Our focus is always on the individual's health and safety, as well as the safety of the workplace. A report of concern to the Swedish Transport Agency is preceded by a thorough medical investigation based on repeated tests and clinical assessments, not just a single test result," says Torbjörn Vedberg, medically responsible manager at Falck.

Physicians are obliged to report to the Swedish Transport Agency if they determine harmful use, excessive consumption, or dependence, and that the individual meets at least one of three medical criteria:

*   lack of control
*   impaired cognitive functions
*   withdrawal/need to drink to avoid withdrawal.

The employee is always informed before a report is made.

The Swedish Transport Agency is currently working on updating the regulations governing the medical requirements for alcohol and narcotics when holding a driving licence. The update and regulatory review are not about lowering the limits and allowing less alcohol but solely about modernising and clarifying existing regulations.

Why alcohol tests in the workplace?

Using alcohol and drug tests as an employer can have several purposes, depending on the workplace and the specific requirements placed on the operation. Here are four reasons why an employer may choose to use alcohol and drug tests:

1. Safety
In industries where safety is important, such as transport, construction, and manufacturing, alcohol tests can help ensure that employees are not under the influence of alcohol, which could jeopardise their own and others' safety.

2. Productivity
Misuse can negatively affect an employee's productivity and work capacity. By identifying alcohol problems, employers can provide the right support to the employee and thus contribute to maintaining an efficient and productive work environment.

3.  Comply with laws and regulations
To meet legal requirements or industry-specific regulations regarding sobriety in the workplace.

4. Recruitment and selection
Alcohol tests can be used as part of a recruitment process to ensure that new employees comply with the company's policies regarding alcohol.

Keep in mind that it is valuable for the operation to have clear policies and communication regarding alcohol tests to avoid misunderstandings and to create a transparent work environment.