Is a positive saliva test for drugs reason to dismiss?

Q: Currently, our drug testing procedure is as follows:

Initial drug testing by salvia at place of work or following a work-related
incident/accident.
Confirmation required by urine testing at reputable testing agency.
If positive, as per our drug and alcohol policy, employee is subject to instant dismissal for serious misconduct.

Our query is, are we able to terminate employment on the initial positive saliva test?

A: Generally, a saliva test is not adequate to confirm a positive drug test. There may be other factors, such as an employee’s appearance or behaviour that indicate they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol and may justify summary dismissal.

However, you will need to ensure that your drug and alcohol policy permits you to summarily terminate a worker’s employment on this basis. Presently, you would be in breach of the terms of your current policy if you were to dismiss an employee without first requesting a urine test.

Please note: The answer is correct at the time of publishing. Be aware that laws may change over time. Refer to Alcohol and other drugs for current advice.