Drug-related risks in the workplace – A growing challenge for Norwegian companies

Intoxication in the workplace represents a significant safety risk that many companies must deal with. Figures from Norwegian authorities and research groups show that the problem is bigger than many people think.

The extent of drunk driving

Over 140,000 daily driving trips in Norway are made while under the influence of alcohol, according to figures from Politiet.no (2025). This is not just a traffic problem – it is also a risk factor that directly affects companies with employees in transport-related professions.

Studies show that 18% of Norwegian drivers admit to driving under the influence of drugs at least once (Fremtind, 2024). Men aged 25–44, a group that is well represented in transport and logistics, are particularly at risk (STRASAK, 2023).

Consequences for employers

Trygg Trafikk (2025) reports that one in five fatal traffic accidents is due to intoxication. For companies with driver liability, this entails several risks:

• Legal liability : Lack of control and prevention can lead to criminal liability
• Loss of reputation : Media exposure to drug-related incidents can damage a company's trust.
• Financial losses : Sick leave, liability and costly deviations
• Insurance and certification : Increased insurance premiums and potential loss of ISO certifications due to lack of documentation

A business risk, not just a personal problem

While substance abuse has traditionally been viewed as an individual issue, statistics show that employers must take an active role. This is not only about compliance and legal responsibility, but also about creating safe work environments where employees and the community are protected from unnecessary risk.

Prevention as a solution

Companies that implement systematic prevention through testing and follow-up achieve several benefits:

• Lower threshold for risky behavior among employees
• Documentable follow-up in the event of incidents
• Demonstration that HSE is taken seriously
• Strengthened safety culture in the organization

With increased focus on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) and sustainable business operations, systematic management of substance-related risk is becoming a natural part of modern corporate management.

Demand for solutions

The increased awareness of substance-related risks in the workplace has led to a greater demand for simple and accessible testing solutions. Karolinska University Hospital has experienced over 400% growth in substance-related tests, indicating that both the healthcare sector and the workplace are taking the challenge more seriously.

The transport, industry, health and education sectors in particular are showing strong interest in low-threshold solutions that can be implemented effectively in daily operations.

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Statistics and sources: Safe Traffic (2025), Politiet.no (2025), Fremtind (2024), STRASAK (2023)