NPA and APM Terminals Commence Mandatory Drug and Alcohol Screening for Truck Drivers at Apapa Port
In a significant move to bolster safety protocols, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and APM Terminals Apapa have officially launched drug and alcohol testing for external truck drivers operating within the Apapa port. This initiative, conducted over the weekend with support from the Port Police and Port Health Services, aims to strengthen risk management and ensure a secure port environment.
Initial Screening Results Show Improvement
The testing exercise, which took place at the port entrance, involved breathalyser screenings for drivers. Out of 30 drivers tested, three were found to be under the influence of alcohol. This result indicates a positive trend compared to previous exercises, suggesting that ongoing efforts may be contributing to reduced substance abuse among port operators.
Emphasis on Driver Fitness and Safety
Lagos Port Manager Adebowale Lawal highlighted the critical importance of driver fitness for safe port operations. He stressed that operators of heavy-duty trucks must remain alert at all times, as the overall safety within the port environment heavily depends on their condition. Lawal added that regular testing will serve as a deterrent and help further reduce incidents of substance abuse among drivers.
"We appreciate APM Terminals Apapa for driving this collaboration, which aligns with our shared commitment to maintaining a safe port ecosystem," Lawal stated.
Broader Safety Strategy and Long-Term Goals
Kamal Alhraishat, Managing Director of APM Terminals Apapa, explained that this initiative is part of a broader safety strategy. The terminal recently achieved 636 days without a lost-time injury, and extending safety measures to external truck drivers is seen as a necessary step to sustain and build on this performance.
Alhraishat noted that impaired driving poses significant risks not only to the drivers themselves but also to terminal personnel and port assets. He described substance abuse among some drivers as a concern, emphasizing that consistent testing and awareness campaigns will support behavioural change and reinforce a safety-focused culture across the entire port community.
"A single lapse could lead to serious incidents, making it imperative to address this issue proactively," Alhraishat added.
