Smurfit Westrock leads the world in sustainable paper-based packaging, building on a proud legacy since 1934. In the UK alone, the company operates across 38 sites, delivering innovative corrugated solutions that support the retail, e-commerce, manufacturing, and logistics industries.
For more than 90 years, the company has matched its reputation for operational excellence with an unwavering commitment to safety and employee wellbeing. Across its sites, Smurfit Westrock champions a working environment built on safety and trust.
Smurfit Westrock combines deep industry expertise, sustainable innovation, and a people-first approach to shape the future of packaging. Its investment in smarter, fairer safety solutions reflects a broader goal: to build long-term success by keeping people safe.
“We all have the same right to leave here at the end of the day in a safe position.” David Hopkin, Health and Safety Manager at Smurfit Westrock
Frontline teams and senior leaders embed safety into every decision and every site visit.
Smurfit Westrock combines deep industry expertise, sustainable innovation, and a people-first approach to shape the future of packaging. Ultimately, their investment in smarter, fairer safety solutions reflects a broader goal: protecting people is the foundation of long-term success.
Challenges
When it came time to strengthen its drug and alcohol policy, the company prioritised preserving its culture of longevity and respect. Before adopting the Intelligent Fingerprinting Drug Testing Solution, its approach to testing was largely reactive. Although a formal zero-tolerance policy was in place, a gap persisted between the policy and its implementation. As a result, enforcement was inconsistent, visibility was limited, and the policy’s credibility fell short of its intended impact.
Closing that gap required a procedural fix, thoughtful collabouration, and a shared commitment to doing things the right way. Smurfit Westrock’s strong relationship with its union partners was central to this process.
“The union was keen to ensure that the technology was right and make sure it was right for their members, whilst also protecting that value of health and safety.” Matthew Collis, Project Manager at Smurfit Westrock
Smurfit Westrock needed a drug testing solution that would reinforce safety standards without compromising morale, trust, or the deep respect it holds for its people.
“We have a culture that focuses on individuals. We want people to work here and stay for many, many years… There are many colleagues on site here and across the network that are here for 30 years.” David Hopkin, Health and Safety Manager at Smurfit Westrock
Solution
To align its policy with its practice, Smurfit Westrock adopted the Intelligent Fingerprinting Drug Testing Solution, marking an important shift toward proactive enforcement. From the outset, Smurfit Westrock prioritised collabouration. Union representatives were actively involved in the rollout to ensure the solution reflected shared values and addressed practical concerns. The response was overwhelmingly positive. Union leaders appreciated the non-invasive nature of the fingerprint sweat approach, which eliminates the discomfort and stigma often associated with traditional testing methods.
In addition, the system’s mobility, discretion, and ease of use offered key advantages. It enabled on-site testing with minimal disruption to operations, and the practical, non-invasive method reinforced its commitment to a safe and supportive workplace.
“The Intelligent Fingerprinting system is mobile and you can roam the site effectively. I like the fact it was discreet, easy to understand, and trustworthy.” David Hopkin, Health and Safety Manager at Smurfit Westrock
By choosing a method that is both practical and non-invasive, Smurfit Westrock reinforced its commitment to a safe workplace.
“Operationally, if someone were to have an incident, given the type of equipment we use, it could lead to a potential fatality. So the fact that people aren’t testing positive on any kind of basis is a good sign for us. It only takes a minute to be intoxicated, and then you could have a fatality on your hands.” Matthew Collis, Project Manager at Smurfit Westrock
Implementation
Smurfit Westrock began its journey with fingerprint drug testing at the Northampton site, selected as the pilot for its new approach to workplace drug testing. The success of this initial deployment provided the blueprint for a nationwide rollout, enabling consistent, site-wide testing across all UK locations.
“It’s been rolled out across the rest of the UK sites and it’s had a positive impact in acting as a deterrent.” David Hopkin, Health and Safety Manager at Smurfit Westrock
Intelligent Fingerprinting provided hands-on support throughout the rollout, ensuring the process was smooth, scalable, and tailored to Smurfit Westrock’s operational needs.
The result was minimal resistance and strong staff alignment. Employees recognised that the new testing programme wasn’t about punishment, it was about protection. Smurfit Westrock’s approach sent a clear message: safety is a shared responsibility, and the company is committed to investing in the wellbeing of every individual.
Results & Impact
Now that fingerprint drug testing is fully integrated into everyday operations, Smurfit Westrock has transformed its approach to workplace safety. Every site across England conducts random drug testing on 10% of its workforce, establishing a consistent and visible standard that reinforces the company’s zero-tolerance stance.
This commitment to fairness and consistency has helped build trust across teams. Employees understand that safety policies apply equally to all, regardless of role or rank.
“If a senior manager turns up to a site and they’re intoxicated, they are treated exactly the same as a person who works in production facilities. There is no difference. The rules apply to everyone. We aren’t targeting specific areas or working groups.” Matthew Collis, Project Manager at Smurfit Westrock
Fingerprint drug testing now forms a central part of Smurfit Westrock’s pre-employment screening. New hires undergo testing on their first day, demonstrating that safety is a non-negotiable. This proactive approach helps prevent potential risks from entering the business and illustrates the company’s commitment to its duty of care.
“Within the first six months of using the Intelligent Fingerprinting system, we were able to stop five people from coming into the business that had tested non-negative. When we make an offer to new employees, they know that on day one they will have to provide a sweat sample. So it’s working. We’re not allowing people that are potential safety risks into the business.” Matthew Collis, Project Manager at Smurfit Westrock
Employee Wellbeing
At Smurfit Westrock, safety and compassion go hand in hand. The company enforces a firm zero-tolerance policy on drugs and alcohol while recognising that addiction is a complex health issue.
Employees struggling with substance misuse are supported rather than sidelined. Smurfit Westrock offers access to tailored support programmes, ensuring that individuals receive the help they need in a confidential and respectful manner.
“If people are suffering from addiction, we have the tools to be able to get the right level of support that they need. It’s something our business leaders are keen to support.” Matthew Collis, Project Manager at Smurfit Westrock
Smurfit Westrock’s commitment to employee wellbeing goes well beyond drug testing. Looking ahead, the company plans to expand its health and wellbeing resources across UK sites, introducing initiatives that reflect care, not just compliance.
Key priorities include occupational health screening to proactively identify and address health risks, along with support services for employees affected by domestic violence. These efforts reflect Smurfit Westrock’s belief that a safe workplace is not just about physical protection. It’s about creating an environment where people feel safe, respected, and supported.
This progressive approach is already gaining international attention. Matthew Collis, who leads the UK programme, works closely with his counterparts across Smurfit Westrock’s global network. Inspired by the UK’s success, teams in other countries have reached out to learn more about Intelligent Fingerprinting, eager to replicate the respectful and effective model that is driving real change.
Why it Matters
Smurfit Westrock has set a new benchmark for what a holistic health and safety programme looks like. Its approach goes far beyond compliance. It is grounded in genuine care for its people. The company has built a framework that protects, empowers, and uplifts employees across every facet of their lives.
“We believe there is nothing that cannot be done safely.” Matthew Collis, Project Manager at Smurfit Westrock
This steadfast commitment to wellbeing has fostered strong, trust-based relationships with union partners and encouraged remarkable staff retention. Many employees have worked at Smurfit Westrock for 30 years or more. This is a clear reflection of a culture where safety and empathy go hand in hand. The company has created a blueprint for cultivating a workplace where safety is truly non-negotiable.
To see how Intelligent Fingerprinting is helping other businesses improve safety and efficiency, explore more case studies.
