By: Rhys Evans - Managing Director at ALCO-Safe South Africa faces a growing drug crisis that is affecting workplaces across the country. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), more than 316 million people worldwide use drugs, and, locally, substances such as nyaope, cat, and crystal meth are becoming increasingly prevalent. These drugs do more than harm individuals. They compromise site safety, reduce productivity, increase absenteeism, and undermine team morale. In environments where every decision matters, taking a reactive approach is dangerous. Proactive, ongoing drug testing keeps employees safe, ensures operations run smoothly, and builds a culture of trust and accountability.