Experts expect increased positive drugs tests as the holidays kick off
The September quarter recorded a 3.1% positivity rate on drug tests, according to the latest data from The Drug Detection Agency (TDDA).
While this figure remained relatively steady from the previous period, the agency warned there is likely going to be a rise as the summer months approach.
Amphetamine-type substances (ATS), including methamphetamine, was the most likely, being present in 53.2% of all positive tests, 6.3% higher than the previous quarter,
Next was cannabis (THC), present in in 46.5% of positive tests and also up 6.3% from the second quarter of 2025.
Among the positive results, opioids were found in 16% of tests. This saw a fall of 2.2% from the preceding quarter.
Benzodiazepines were found in 12% of positive tests, up 0.4% from the second quarter and cocaine was present in 8.5% of positive tests, up 1.8%.
“Cocaine use has been steadily increasing over the year, and we believe that’s in no small part due to cartel activity,” commented TDDA CEO, Glenn Dobson.
“Cocaine used to be considered a white-collar drug, but we’re seeing it crop up in all industries we serve.
“Unfortunately, the drug has a seasonal pattern where usage tends to increase over the holidays. Blue collar and corporate businesses alike are concerned - and rightly so - about how it affects the behaviour of their staff and their company’s reputation.”
TDDA urged employers to be vigilant as we enter the silly season and review and update drug and alcohol policy where necessary.
“Reinforcing policies now prevents difficult conversations and potentially life-threatening accidents. Talking to staff about return-to-work testing reminds people that safety doesn’t take a holiday off and everyone needs to come back to work fit for duty. It’s about balancing goodwill with responsibility,” Dobson said.
Businesses can implement measures like return-to-work, regular, and random drug testing to help increase safety.
TDDA also recommended providing managers with training, so they are better equipped to notice and act upon any drug related issues.
