Max HeyraudA team of researchers at the University of British Columbia has unveiled a new device designed to combat drug-related assaults in nightlife spaces.
Dubbed Spikeless, the tool looks like an ordinary drink stirrer, but with a crucial difference. Within 30 seconds, it can detect common spiking agents like GHB and ketamine, changing colour if any are present.
“This could be the seatbelt for nightlife,” anti-violence activist Sasha Santos told CBC. “But instead of telling people to buy more gear or be more cautious, we’re saying the responsibility should lie with the spaces themselves.”
That kind of system-wide integration would mark a shift from passive awareness campaigns to active protection—something that’s urgently needed. Spiking remains a serious issue in Ireland, where nearly 90% of victims are women and around one-third of incidents are linked to sexual assault. Despite this, there is still no standalone offence for drink spiking, cases are typically treated under laws related to assault or poisoning. Advocates argue this signals a lack of urgency, calling for stronger protections and better reporting mechanisms.
The UBC researchers are now in the testing phase, with hopes that Spikeless will be rolled out across bars, clubs, and hospitality venues worldwide. If widely adopted, it could mark a small but significant shift toward nightlife that is safer, smarter, and more accountable.
