Working under the influence of drink or drugs is rarely easy and never ideal - anyone in the office with a hangover would vouch for that.

Now a new survey shows it is also particularly unhelpful where company profits are concerned.

Random tests: Witch hunt or quality control?

The survey from the TUC and Alcohol Concern shows that drink and drug abuse by employees is costing British firms almost £3bn a year in lost days and accidents.

John Monks of the TUC says "Alcohol and drug abuse at work is unsafe, unhealthy and unproductive."

And Alcohol Concern is urging all firms to address the problem "head on".

So what about random testing as a solution? Or would it create new difficulties and make existing ones worse?

Random tests have been used in the armed forces for years. Those who support the policy think it should be a part of all jobs.

They say it is an effective way to nip problems in the bud and makes offering help in confidence easier.

Others say just the fear of being tested is an effective deterrent.

But many workers disagree. They say it is just another Big Brother tactic by bully bosses and the nanny state.

Random testing, they argue, humiliates and penalises the recreational drinker and is an infringement of civil rights.

Others say it only drives substance abuse further underground.

And there are those who say a drink helps the creative juices. They insist they do their best work after a pint.

So how would you feel if it happened to you?

Should random drink/drug tests take place at work?

Your reaction in full

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