20.0 DRUGS AND ALCOHOL
20.1 Illicit Drugs and Alcohol
The use of drugs or alcohol jeopardises a safe workplace. The Employer recognises alcohol and other drug dependencies as treatable conditions, and encourages those persons who may be subject to such dependency to seek assistance from appropriate organisations or support groups.
The Employer has a zero tolerance approach towards the presence of illicit drugs within the workplace. This includes the discovery of an employee with possession of an illicit substance, and any testing which results in a non-negative reading of a substance within an employee’s system above the detectable limit while at work.
Employees are not permitted to work while under the influence of alcohol and must conduct themselves responsibly at all times. For the purposes of this policy and due to the nature of your work, if at any time you are required to operate vehicles, heavy or otherwise, machinery or other high risk work, the blood alcohol content limit is zero (0.00%).
Alcohol may be consumed at some Employer events. Where this is the case, the Employer encourages responsible alcohol consumption and at no time should you be drunk or behave in a manner which is inappropriate.
Non-compliance with this policy and any associated procedure by employees may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination.
20.2 Prescribed/Over-the-Counter Medication
Employees who are taking any prescribed or over-the-counter medication which may affect their ability to perform their work must notify management as soon as possible. You may be required to produce a medical certificate stating that you are fit for work or specifying any restrictions.
20.3 Screening
The Employer may require screening for alcohol and drugs. This may include pre-employment testing, reasonable suspicion testing, testing after an OHS incident, or random testing across all levels of employees.
If suspected of being under the influence, you may be transported to Sonic HealthPlus Karratha GP Super Clinic (66 Welcome Rd, Karratha), or another facility for testing. You will need to bring photo ID. Refusal to undergo testing will result in disciplinary action.
Testing Hours (Sonic HealthPlus):
- Monday & Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday to Thursday: 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
If you return a positive result, refuse to participate, or are removed due to reasonable suspicion, you will be required to cease work immediately and leave the workplace. This time will be unpaid until you return a negative result. You will not be able to return to the workplace until you report to management and are cleared to work.
20.4 No Smoking or Vaping Policy
Smoking and vaping/e-cigarettes are not permitted under any circumstances on the premises. These activities are only allowed in designated areas and during breaks.
Failure to comply with this policy may result in disciplinary action being taken against you, up to and including termination.