The Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC) has released its latest wastewater report, revealing a mixed picture of national drug consumption. Report 23 of the National Wastewater Drug Monitoring Program is based on data collected in April (capital cities & regional areas) and June 2024 (capital city sites only) to provide a comprehensive picture of Australia’s drug consumption habits.
Wastewater data reveals that, despite a decrease in national cocaine consumption since December 2023, consumption remains higher than pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels, signalling a possible longer-term expansion of the market. Current methylamphetamine consumption is above long-term average levels, but not quite to the levels prior to COVID-19.
In April there was record high ketamine excretion in both capital cities and regional areas, underlining an escalation in use. The data highlighted the differences between the Australian drug market and those in North America who are experiencing an opioid crisis, with record low regional consumption of oxycodone and fentanyl in Australia for April 2024.
What are the Safety Risks for Workplaces? Depending on the drug/s taken people can have immediate symptoms as well as lingering for up to 4 to 6 days. This may include depression, memory loss and disorientation. Our drug testing products are designed in line with Australian Standards for urine testing and oral fluid (AS/NZ 4308:2023 & AS/NZS 4760:2019). Read more about the current Australian Standards here.
There are potentially a multitude of drugs that can be used and abused and while the increasing availability of ‘new drugs’ designed to bypass existing legislation remains a concern, keeping up with these trends requires ongoing innovation and commitment. Although it’s challenging, continuous advancements and adaptability in testing allow us to respond effectively to these changes and support safer workplaces.
What can be done to minimise the risks of drugs of abuse in the workplace? With a robust understanding of Australian regulations and standards, we are well-equipped to help navigate the complexities of workplace testing. Your commitment to a drug-free workplace safeguards your employees and contributes to a culture of responsibility and accountability, fostering success and well-being for everyone in your workplace.
Irrelevant of the type of drug an employee may or may not be taking – being able to deter drug use via effective Drug & Alcohol programs, training key staff to spot signs of abuse and impairment with reasonable suspicion, and encouraging support for those who may need it, are all areas employers need to be across. A clearly set out AOD (Alcohol & other drugs) policy with precise measures to take, in terms of safety and health risks arising from alcohol and drugs, reduces risks to employees and employers. Drug & Alcohol testing isn’t designed to penalise workers but rather keep them – and their colleagues – safe. Read our Fit for Duty post here.
If you would like assistance minimising risks in your workplace with an organisation committed to ongoing innovation in drug testing and deterrence, or simply to find out more about our AOD services, please get in touch with our team here or phone 1300 789 908.
Sources
ACIC
Health Direct