On 6 September, the new Transport for NSW (TfNSW) Drug and Alcohol policy and procedure came into effect, with many members undertaking the training.

There are outstanding concerns with how the procedure is being implemented.

Alcohol

We are disappointed with the approach from TfNSW to the training. We have become aware that TfNSW is skimming over an essential aspect of the policy and procedure: that the ramifications for low-risk workers testing above 0.00 per cent BAC are different. In effect, the system provides those employees with a buffer, and disciplinary action is not to be taken. You would be aware from our previous bulletin that this resulted from the PSA’s dispute. Further information can be found HERE.

Drugs

Throughout the consultation process, it was the understanding of the PSA that employees who declared at the time of testing medications in the list of drugs, if the initial test came up non–negative for the class of drug declared, then the employee, if they were not a Rail Safety Worker, would not be automatically sent home without any fitness for duty.

We have met with TfNSW and expressed our concern about this process. Many employees may not declare medications before testing as they are not taken at work when they take them, yet these individuals will be directed home on sick leave pending the laboratory results. Whilst the sick leave will be recredited if the lab results align with their declaration to the tester, this process seems overbearing and does not seem to align with the policy and procedure when there is no requirement for non-Rail Safety employees to declare their medications.

TfNSW will not amend the procedure but has agreed to continue to meet with the PSA over the next six months to provide information about the process in practice and consult with the PSA about any potential changes.

The PSA suggests that members who take medications within the drugs listed in the procedure declare them to the Chief Health Officer. You can elect not to consent for your line manager to be made aware of the information you provide; this means only the Chief Health Officer will be aware. Once you declare the medication, the Chief Health Officer will basically perform what could be described as a risk assessment to determine if the medication will impact your ability to work safely.

For further information or questions, contact the PSA on 1300 772 679.