Industry News & Updates

When a business owner discovered employees smoking cannabis in a company vehicle, drug testing revealed nearly the entire workforce was affected. Suddenly, he faced an impossible choice: uphold safety and risk losing staff, or look the other way. It’s a dilemma many employers confront.

Public HLTPA010 Collect Specimens for Drugs of Abuse Testing courses are now open across Australia, offering hands‑on, nationally recognised drug and alcohol testing training. Perfect for small teams or job seekers wanting practical, real‑world skills. Gain confidence with highly interactive training to suit all learning levels, guidance from experienced, industry qualified trainers and same‑day practical assessments.

A Sydney dad allegedly blew one of NSW’s highest ever alcohol readings, proving drink driving is somehow still a thing in 2026. With taxis, rideshare and our personal use pocket breathalyser, there’s no excuse. If your reading could make headlines, hand over the keys and check yourself before you drive.

The Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator (ONRSR) has introduced significant updates to drug and alcohol testing requirements for NSW rail operators – marking a meaningful shift in over a decade. These reforms create greater flexibility for operators, modernise testing practices, and align NSW with national approaches to risk‑based drug and alcohol management.

Alcolizer Technology is officially recognised in the WA Defence Industry & Science Capability Directory, a key platform showcasing Western Australia’s sovereign industrial capabilities supporting Defence operations and national security. This recognition reflects our long-standing commitment to delivering reliable, Australian made technology that enhances operational readiness, workforce safety and compliance across some of the nation’s most critical environments.

A recent incident involving a senior union leader driving a work vehicle over the legal alcohol limit is a clear reminder that no one is exempt from impairment risk – regardless of role, experience, or intent. Alcohol- and drug-related risks extend beyond the individual, affecting colleagues, customers, communities, and ultimately the reputation and stability of any workplace.

Alcolizer Technology delivers police-grade breathalysers and drug testing solutions trusted by Australian Police for over 20 years. Ensuring accuracy, compliance, and legally defensible results – our drug and alcohol testing solutions are available for workplaces, communities, and personal use. Confidence, compliance, and protection you can trust.

Mental health claims are set to rise, with regulators prioritising psychosocial risk compliance. Vehicle incidents remain the leading cause of workplace fatalities, driving adoption of safety tech. Substance misuse prevention and hybrid training models are gaining momentum – key trends shaping workplace safety this year. Stay ahead with proactive strategies.

Workplace drug and alcohol testing is vital for safety, but interpreting results can be complex. Prescription medications, supplements, and individual factors often influence outcomes, leading to uncertainty and risk. Our new Confidential Toxicology Enquiry service connects you directly with a forensic toxicologist for secure, expert guidance – helping you make informed, fair, and scientifically sound decisions.

The clock is ticking. The AS/NZS 4308:2023 standard – a major update to urine drug testing protocols across Australia and New Zealand – must be implemented by November this year. This update reflects modern drug trends, including synthetic cannabinoids and opioids, and incorporates advances in laboratory technology.

As we kick off the new year, it’s the perfect time to review your workplace drug testing program and make sure everything is aligned with current standards. While many businesses are focused on the AS/NZS 4308:2023 urine testing transition deadline this November, oral fluid testing under AS/NZS 4760:2019 remains a critical part of compliance and fitness-for-work assessments.

The formal qualification for drug and alcohol testing has changed. HLTPAT005 has been superseded by HLTPAT010 – Collect Specimens for Drugs of Abuse Testing, reflecting updated compliance standards. If your workplace conducts testing, transitioning to HLTPAT010 will help you stay compliant and maintain legally defensible practices.