BANGKOK, Thailand – The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has suspended two employees from safety-related duties after they tested positive for illicit substances during a proactive drug screening campaign, the agency said.
The drug testing initiative for safety-critical personnel was intensified following a recent train-bus collision at the Asoke-Dindaeng railway crossing.
Screenings conducted on May 19 yielded no positive results among 157 employees tested. However, out of 141 employees screened on May 20, two tested positive for drugs.
The SRT immediately removed both individuals from safety operations. They have been referred for official medical confirmation, and will face internal fact-finding and disciplinary investigations alongside public health rehabilitation programs.
Anan Phonimdaeng, acting governor of the SRT, stated that proactive testing will continue for train operations personnel nationwide with no exemptions for matters affecting public safety.
“This incident forces us to review our safety measures across multiple areas, particularly the prevention and resolution of substance abuse within the organization,” Anan said.
The SRT added that it plans to elevate its “Drug-Free Organization” guidelines for safety-related divisions to tighten operational standards and mitigate risks to public safety. (TNA)
