WORKERS at a leading aerospace company are to be tested for drugs and alcohol in the workplace in a bid to prevent works accidents.

Employees at Rolls-Royce, Barnoldswick, have asked for more information about the details of the scheme but are likely to agree to the move.

The tests, rolled-out nationally at most other Rolls-Royce sites, have been introduced to prevent employees taking drugs or drinking alcohol in the workplace.

Bosses at the Skipton Road plant said drugs and alcohol guidelines already exist in the company as part of the industries health and safety regulations.

And other companies in the area said today they would also be looking to introduce the system.

If workers agree to the tests, newcomers will face the saliva tests and bosses will have the power to test any employees they suspect may be taking illegal substances.

Gary Atkins, Roll-Royce spokesman, said: "Aerospace is a very safety conscious business and has to be because of the nature of our business.

"The policy is an enhancement of a lesser policy we have always had. We are not going to do random tests, we will be testing new starters and will test anybody who we have cause to think may be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

"We are not looking to trap or scare people, it is just following health and safety guidelines."

Mr Atkins said employees found under the influence of drugs or alcohol while at work might not result in instant dismissal.

"We always offer support to all our employees but individual cases would have to be assessed on their own merits. If somebody had a problem then we would do our best to help them."

One Rolls-Royce worker, who asked not to be named, said: "I know some people who like to smoke dope at weekends and they are concerned about the tests because it can stay in your system for months.

"They don't want to face the uncertainty of losing their job just because they like the occasional smoke. As long as it doesn't effect your work I can't see what harm it does."

Most other Rolls-Royce sites have accepted the change of contract but Barnoldswick are consulting with employees before agreeing to the new terms.