Thousands of Australians turn up to work high on ice each day, a new report says.

SafeWork Laboratories says the number of workers testing positive for methamphetamines at work increased from 1.5 per cent nationwide in 2016 to 1.9 per cent in 2017, or about 240,000 workers.

South Australia’s peak business lobby Business SA commissioned the research by SafeWork Laboratories.

It focused on workers in safety-sensitive occupations like mining, manufacturing, utilities, construction and transport.

But Business SA Senior Policy Adviser Estha van der Linden said it is a risk for any business.

“People who take methamphetamines feel the effect for up to 48 hours, meaning they may not know they are still under the influence. If they are under the influence they would be putting themselves and their colleagues at risk. They may also be unpredictable, have mood swings and be at risk of psychotic episodes,” Ms van der Linden said.

She said employers were legally obliged to ensure workplaces were safe.

“All businesses should consider creating a workplace drugs policy, preparing them for potential accidents or emergencies, or in case they suspect one of their staff members is under the influence.”

A copy of the new report, The Ice Age, is accessible here.