In many industries, employers are legally required to implement a Drug and Alcohol Program to ensure the safety of their workforce and confirm employees are free from the effects of drugs or alcohol while on duty.
In Australia, this applies to several high-risk industries where safety is critical. These include construction, transport, mining and resources, maritime, rail, aviation, agriculture and forestry, and corrections and emergency services. In these sectors, drug and alcohol programs are either mandated by law or strongly expected as part of best practice.
At Alcolizer Technology, we understand the critical role that proactive testing and compliance play in protecting lives, reputations, and operational integrity. Whether you’re in a regulated industry or simply committed to workplace safety, understanding the framework of procedures and practices behind a compliant Drug and Alcohol Program is essential.
It is more than a policy, it’s a structured framework of procedures and practices designed to:
Requirements vary by industry, so it’s essential to review the legislation relevant to your sector. For example, under the NSW Passenger Transport Act 1990, operators must:
1. Risk Assessment – Employers must assess drug and alcohol risks and document them. This informs:
Risk Assessment Example
A regional transport company operates 40 vehicles across multiple depots and employs 85 staff, including drivers, mechanics, and administrative personnel.
The Risk Assessment Identified
▪️Early morning and late-night shifts increase fatigue and potential substance use
▪️Limited supervision at remote depots
▪️Past incident involving a driver under the influence of prescription medication
Recommended Actions to Reduce Risk
▪️Update policy to include medication disclosure and fatigue management
▪️Deliver targeted training on the potential effects of prescription and over the counter medication
▪️Introduce random testing at remote depots and mandatory testing for night shifts
▪️Create a confidential referral process for support
2. Drug & Alcohol Policy – A clear policy should outline the operator’s commitment to safety, objectives, and consequences for non-compliance. Use Alcolizer Technology’s policy review service to ensure your policy is current and compliant.
3. Supporting Measures – Effective programs include workplace practices to reduce risk (e.g. supervision, rostering), restrictions on drug/alcohol availability, education, training, referral rehabilitation pathways and confidentiality protocols.
4. Education & Awareness -All staff including managers and supervisors should be educated on:
5. Testing Arrangements – Testing should be robust and risk-based including Post-Incident Mandatory Testing, Random Testing and Reasonable Suspicion Testing. Testing methods must comply with national standards:
6. Disciplinary Action & Support – Outline sanctions for breaches, fair procedures and appeal mechanisms, along with support for workers who self-identify or use prescribed medication.
7. Program Review – Regular reviews ensure the program remains effective and aligned with operational risks.
We support organisations with industry-leading drug and alcohol testing solutions, including:
Our solutions are designed to help you meet your legal obligations while building a safer, more accountable workplace.
Like some assistance implementing your Drug and Alcohol Program?
Contact our team to learn how we can support your compliance journey.
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Normal Operations Resume 2 January 2026
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