Brett Button is currently appealing his 32-year sentence over the Hunter Valley bus crash that killed 10 people and injured 25 others. Central to the appeal is the judge’s finding that Button knowingly drove under the influence of Tramadol – a prescription opioid painkiller – after taking significantly more than his prescribed dose.
The case has reignited urgent questions about how workplaces manage prescription drug risks, particularly in safety-critical industries like transport. As legal proceedings unfold, it highlights the evolving responsibilities of employers under WHS legislation. In today’s rapidly changing risk environment, understanding the implications of medication use is no longer optional—it demands clear policies, robust training, and reliable testing protocols.
According to ABC News, Button’s Appeal Claims
- He genuinely believed he was not impaired by tramadol.
- He had developed a high tolerance due to long-term use.
- He never experienced a “high” or euphoria from the drug.
- He believed he was safe to drive – a belief not contested during trial.
However, the Crown’s Response Highlights
- Evidence shows Button knew tramadol could impair driving.
- He consumed well above the prescribed dose.
- He signed agreed facts stating he was driving dangerously under the influence of tramadol.
Understanding Tramadol in Australia
Tramadol is a Schedule 4 prescription-only opioid used to treat moderate to severe pain. While legal when prescribed and used correctly, misuse or non-prescribed use is considered illicit under Australian law.¹ ²
Will Tramadol Show in a Drug Test?
Tramadol is not included in the standard Australian and New Zealand workplace drug testing panels (AS/NZS 4308:2023 for urine and AS 4760 for oral fluid). However, it can be screened and detected through advanced testing if specifically requested — for example, in legal proceedings or high-risk workplace roles.
Best Practice Recommendations
For safety-critical roles, employers may consider quarterly testing for certain prescribed medications, including opioids like tramadol. This must be supported by clear workplace policies and procedures, medical oversight, and transparent communication with staff.
Workplace Safety Implications
If a bus driver taking prescribed medication — who genuinely believed he was safe to drive — caused the deaths of ten people… are we doing enough to protect our teams?
- Do your drivers, machine operators, or supervisors take prescription painkillers?
- Are they increasing their dosage without medical oversight?
- Do you have a drug and alcohol testing program in place that allows for additional testing ?
- Do you have a process for prescription &/or over the counter medication disclosures, follow-up testing, and safety reviews—especially for prescription opioids?
- If not, your workplace may already be exposed to the same risk.
Protect your People. Protect your Business.
Alcolizer Technology can help you build a safer, compliant drug and alcohol program — covering policy, education, testing, and support. Explore our Workplace Drug & Alcohol Program Solutions or get in touch with our team here.