Implementing and Managing a Workplace Drug and Alcohol Program

Drug & alcohol testing: About Us

STEP 1 - Set your drug and alcohol policy.

A robust drug and alcohol policy is fundamental to a successful workplace drug and alcohol program.
Review it regularly to ensure it is up-to-date and comprehensive.
As a minimum, we strongly recommend your policy:
- Addresses the current standard ASNZS 4760 (2019).
- Includes both illicit drugs and prescription medication.
- Specifies your testing regime, including type of testing, limits and the circumstances under which testing may apply.
For information on how DASA can support you to develop a robust drug and alcohol policy, click here

STEP 1 Set yor Drug and Alcohol Policy

STEP 2 Communicate the policy to your staff

STEP 2 – Communicate the policy to your staff.

Once you have developed your drug and alcohol policy, the next step is to communicate it to your staff.
In our experience, communication is best centred around:
- Raising awareness of the policy.
- Clarifying obligations and expectations under the policy.
- Fostering a supportive culture that is built on trust and respect.
For more information on DASA’s training and education material, click here.

STEP 3 Implement drug and alcohol testing

STEP 3 – Implement drug and alcohol testing.

Drug and alcohol testing is critical to minimising risk and promoting safety in your workplace.
A regime that includes both scheduled and unscheduled (post incident / for-cause) testing is the most effective approach and works to normalise drug and alcohol testing in a workplace.
An independent third-party testing provider ensures testing is conducted in a way that is scientifically, ethically, and medically robust, free from accusations of favouritism; assures confidentiality and privacy and, in the worst scenario, will be upheld in a court of law.
For more information on DASA’s testing services, click here.

STEP 4 Review the drug and alcohol program

STEP 4 - Review the drug and alcohol program.

To ensure your drug and alcohol program remains current and fit for purpose, we recommend regular (at least annual) review
As a minimum, a review should ask:
- Is our policy current and comprehensive?
- What is the level of awareness among the team?
- Do we require refresher training for workers or supervisors?
- Is there a need for additional communication on any aspect of the program?
- Is our testing regime consistent with our policy, operations, and budget?
- What is working? What is not working?
We would also recommend regular meetings with your drug and alcohol provider to identify and address any implementation issues and opportunities for program enhancement.
For more information on how DASA can assist in program review, click here.

DASA (Drug and Alcohol Solutions Australia) is proud to be leading the way in workplace drug and alcohol testing services throughout Australia. Whether your need is for workplace drug and workplace alcohol testing, advice on drug and alcohol policy or ideas on how to communicate your workplace expectations, policies and procedures to your staff, DASA can help. We have the experience, technical expertise and people to lead you to the right solution.