Property inspections on farm a must

As employers, farmers have to make sure accommodation they provide is free of methamphetamine (P).

Farm houses failing methamphetamine tests are becoming common. Farm houses are attractive targets. But it is not just P labs that cause contamination. Using P in the house can cause issues.

It is extremely distressing for anyone affected and can be a very costly and time consuming process to clean. The by-products of P use and manufacture are extremely dangerous. Decontamination is strictly a job for the professionals.

Houses can be inhabitable for periods of time, meaning alternative accommodation for staff has to be found, on top of cleaning costs.

So how do we minimise the risks of this happening to us? Firstly, benchmark your existing houses now. Get them tested and prove they are clean. This way you can be sure your properties are safe for living in. Test your properties before new tenants move in.

Secondly, drug test your employees. Conduct a preemployment drug test.

Thirdly, do monthly property inspections on all new staff. If you have had a staff member there awhile you may only do them quarterly. Even if the house is effectively in the paddock beside your’s – do your inspections.

Finally, check your insurance cover to see if you are protected in the case that you did have a property contaminated by P.

If you need any help please feel free to call me on 07 889 8838 or email john@cooperaitken.co.nz.

John Brosnan, Human Resources & Business Development Adviser, CooperAitken.