Inuvik (Oct 20/06) - Without a proper drug and alcohol policy, your company might miss out on some big projects in the near future.

Ed Secondiak, of ECS Safety Services, is in Inuvik this week to discuss the importance of drug testing and what it could mean for companies.

Ed Secondiak was in town this week hosting meetings on the importance of having drug and alcohol policies within businesses in town. Secondiak said companies without a drug-screening program might miss out on big development contracts in the future. - Dez Loreen/NNSL photo

His trip was sponsored by the SHARE group, which was formed by companies that have invested in the proposed pipeline.

Secondiak used the worst case scenario of a company in the North losing out on jobs and projects because employees had failed drug tests.

"If the pipeline goes ahead, many local companies will be needed for work," he said.

"Make sure your company is compliant with the contract requirements."

He did point out Inuvik companies seem to be getting the message about keeping their employees clean.

"The test results are better here than in the south," he said. "That shows people are prepared for a safe workplace here."

During the week, Secondiak held a few sessions to inform companies of the procedures involved.

Alcohol testing is another option Northern firms should utilize, he said.

The testing machine resembles a breathalyser test, which gauges the alcohol level in someone's system by having them blow through a sensor.

Secondiak had an informal opening to his presentations on Tuesday morning to help relax listeners. He fielded some early questions about the process and how it could affect companies in the region.

Johnny Lennie is the operating manager of Kila Enterprises in Inuvik.

Lennie attended the meeting and questioned the costs involved in testing an entire company for drugs.

"Maybe the larger companies could afford doing that, but the smaller ones cannot," he said.

Secondiak said the cost of not testing might be even greater. Another person who wished to remain anonymous, said the testing is well advertised and suggested employees may just take a break from their addictions.

"People know about the testing in advance. Some people are just slipping by," the individual said. "They should be quick and random."

Secondiak also had plans to visit the high school to discuss the importance of being clean of alcohol and drugs when you enter the workforce.

"Imagine losing that job you're over qualified for, just because of a failed drug test," he said. "Drug testing is common with industry employment."