Narrabri Shire Council has introduced random drug and alcohol testing for employees, contractors and volunteers.
On Monday morning 25 workers were selected to undergo the drug and alcohol testing at the Narrabri Depot and the main Administration Building.
Ms Diane Hood, General Manager, volunteered to be the first one tested.
“The health, wellbeing and safety of our workforce are of paramount importance and we want to ensure everyone is safe at work.” said the GM.
“The drug and alcohol testing is one part of Council’s workplace health and safety program.”
“Testing is non-invasive and quick to administer using an oral swab technique to test for drugs and a breath test machine to test blood alcohol content” says Trish Dandridge, Human Resources Manager.
Council already tests for drugs and alcohol at pre-employment and at the airport as required by the civil aviation authority.
Random testing will be conducted several times a year by an NATA accredited organisation to ensure workers are fit for work and eliminate the risks associated with the misuse of alcohol and other drugs.
“Council is committed to providing a safe, healthy and productive work environment for all staff at all times” says Diane.