P&O Ferries Suspends 13 Crew Members After Failing Drugs Test

At least thirteen members of a P&O’s cross-Channel ferry have been suspended after producing ‘non-negative’ urine samples in random drugs tests.

The members of the 104 crew on board the roll-on/roll-off ferry, Pride of Canterbury, were randomly tested at sea on two crossings last week by the company.

P&O later informed the Port of Dover Police the shocking test results and an investigation has also been launched regarding the incident.

“As part of routine drugs testing of our crews, 13 individuals on the Pride of Canterbury recorded non-negative tests, which have now been sent for further analysis,” a P&O Ferries spokesman was quoted in media reports as saying.

“P&O Ferries operates a zero tolerance policy towards substance abuse and any employees not complying with it will be dismissed,” he added.

Media reports suggested some of those tested positive was working in the decking department of the ferry.

The company said the tests were conducted during a number of crossings between Dover and Calais over a four hour period. “No substances were found but Port of Dover Police have been routinely informed,” P&O Ferries stated.

However, there was no information available on the type of drugs they used or the dosage consumed.

According the Transport and Works Act 1992, the use of drugs and alcohol by crew working in certain transport jobs is a criminal offence in the UK.

In September 2013, P&O Ferries’ five crew members were suspended after reports of alleged violation of drug rules.

Launched in 1991, the Pride of Canterbury stared operating on P&O’s cross Channel route in 2003.

The vessel made news in 2014 after a fire broke out on the ferry, which was carrying more than 300 passengers, en route from Dover to northern France. The passengers on board had disembarked without any causality.

Reference: The Sun/ Daily Mail

Disclaimer :
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. While we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.

Latest Shipping News You Would Like:

Improperly Declared Dangerous Goods Putting Lives At Risk In The Supply Chain

Posted on September 29, 2023

Over the past decade, containership fires have seen a disturbing rise, with a notable number resulting in casualties and total losses.

NYK To Trial Mooring System To Suppress Hull Shaking With Jera And Trelleborg Marine Systems

Posted on September 29, 2023

At many ports facing the open sea, hull shaking caused by sea swells and long-period waves has led to cargo-handling interruptions and ship evacuations, reducing port operation efficiency.

Seapath And Pilot LNG Launch Joint Venture To Develop First LNG Bunkering Facility In U.S. Gulf Coast

Posted on September 29, 2023

$150M investment projected through JV will develop, construct, and operate a terminal in the Galveston Bay area supporting LNG-powered vessels.

Airbus To Install New Fuel-Saving Sails For Maritime Operations

Posted on September 29, 2023

Airbus will equip one of the vessels it uses to transport aircraft subassemblies, chartered from shipowner Louis Dreyfus Armateurs, with a wind-assisted propulsion technology.

‘12 Degrees’ By John Robert M. Maraño Wins Life At Sea 2023 Photography Competition!

Posted on September 29, 2023

Let’s take a look at the winners of Life At Sea 2023 on this World Maritime Day inside this article.