SRT drug testing has identified two more railway employees. Both work for the State Railway of Thailand and were connected with train operations. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

SRT drug testing finds two more railway cases
Photo: AFP

They tested positive for illegal substances during pre-duty checks. The cases came as the agency expanded proactive screening. It followed a fatal May 16 crash in Bangkok. A freight train and a bus were involved.

According to The Nation Thailand, the latest checks covered train operations and safety staff. The screening began after the agency upgraded safety measures. Those measures followed the Asok-Din Daeng level crossing crash.

Two cases found during expanded SRT drug testing

The SRT said 157 employees were screened on May 19. All results were negative.

On May 20, another 141 staff members were tested. Two were found to have used illegal substances.

Both employees were immediately ordered to stop safety-related duties. They were also sent for medical confirmation testing. They were placed under internal procedures. These include fact-finding checks and disciplinary investigations. The staff members are also being referred into the public health sector’s screening and rehabilitation system.

Train driver in crash had also tested positive

RTHK reported that the train driver in the crash had tested positive for drugs. The expanded checks followed that report.

The accident led the SRT to review safety measures in several areas. The review focused on drug prevention and monitoring. It covered employees whose roles directly affect public safety.

Drug-Free Organisation programme to be strengthened

SRT acting governor Anan Phonimdang said proactive testing of operational personnel would continue nationwide. He stressed that there would be no exemptions where public safety was concerned.

Also, Mr Anan said the incident prompted a safety review. It focused on preventing and addressing drug-related risks within the organisation.

In addition, he said the agency would address the issue seriously and continuously. Employees who need treatment and rehabilitation would be referred through the proper channels.

Separately, the SRT is preparing to strengthen its Drug-Free Organisation initiative. It covers departments connected with operational safety.

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