Workplace anti-drug program announced

PHUKET: The Office of Labor Protection and Welfare of Phuket (LPWP) is urging businesses to join the “White Service Business” scheme, which aims to protect workers from illegal drugs. To join the scheme, a business must follow eight rules: 1. Have a clear policy about illegal drugs in the workplace. 2. Display anti-drug messages on signs. 3. Set up a committee to respond to drug problems in the workplace. 4. Arrange activities that will provide workers with information about illegal drugs. 5. Arrange activities such as a parade or campaign to encourge workers to avoid using illegal drugs. 6. Organize on-site health checks for staff at least once a year. 7. Prevent the use and sale of drugs in the workplace. 8. Run anti-drug programs and activities on an ongoing basis. After a company applies to join the scheme, officers will check its premises within six months. If the company is found to be following the rules, then it will receive a “White Service Business” certificate. Waranon Pitiwan of the LPWP said, “In Phuket last year, only eight companies joined the program from a total of about 6,000 companies, including about 200 companies that had more than 50 workers.” K. Waranon added, “This year we plan to have about 200 companies join the scheme.” For more information, call the LPWP at 076-211995 or 076-220760.