Kazakhstan to Update Alcohol and Drug Testing Regulations

The Ministry of Healthcare of Kazakhstan has proposed a new set of rules for medical examinations to determine intoxication levels. The draft decree, now available for public discussion on the "Open NPA" portal until March 27, aims to overhaul how alcohol and drug consumption is recorded.

The core update involves the introduction of qualitative indicators to measure the degree of intoxication. This change is designed to help doctors record a person's condition more precisely, reducing "questionable" or controversial medical conclusions. Furthermore, laboratory tests will become more detailed and rigorous than before.

The Ministry expects these measures to ensure fairness during medical examinations and to restore public trust. This follows numerous complaints from drivers who previously alleged that test results were being manipulated or falsified.

Additionally, the proposal includes a plan to set up specialized medical rooms at workplaces across the country, where employees can be regularly screened for alcohol or drug use.