marine link image
REGISTER NOW FOR the Port of the Future Conference • 2 Days, 50 Ports • Houston, TX • March 24–25, 2026

New Guidelines for Controlling Drug and Alcohol Use at Sea

June 26, 2020

© donvictori0 / Adobe Stock
© donvictori0 / Adobe Stock

New guidance from the Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF) addresses the potentially serious impact and risks associated with the use and abuse of alcohol, drugs or other impairing substances by maritime personnel on board ships.

Research has shown that a properly designed random workplace drug and alcohol testing program can mitigate the risk of inappropriate drug and alcohol use and reduce workplace incidents and accidents.

OCIMF says its new guideline applies to operators of marine vessels and terminal operators associated with ship and shore operations. It does not address drug and alcohol testing associated with substance abuse treatment, return to work and aftercare testing.

The guidance can be viewed here.

Logistics News

Chubb to Serve as Lead US Insurer for Gulf Shipping Amid Iran War

Chubb to Serve as Lead US Insurer for Gulf Shipping Amid Iran War

MSC Secures 45‑Year Lagos Port Concession

MSC Secures 45‑Year Lagos Port Concession

Tankers Ablaze, Iranian Oil Still Shipping

Tankers Ablaze, Iranian Oil Still Shipping

Container vessel Orderbook Hits Record High

Container vessel Orderbook Hits Record High

Subscribe for Maritime Logistics Professional E‑News

As conflict risks increase, sea drones are targeting oil tankers in the Middle East.
Maersk redistributing fuel to ships as Iran war disrupts supplies
Canada seeks ways to boost oil production in order to reduce price spikes caused by the Iran war