Would you expect a Queensland employee who failed workplace drug testing to keep their job? What if that employee was a train driver, responsible for hundreds – if not thousands – of lives each shift?
This question became very real after a recent incident involving a Queensland Rail driver. According to the Courier Mail, the driver tested positive for high levels of morphine after drinking poppy seed tea. While under the influence, the driver overshot a red signal by 45 metres at Brisbane’s Mitchelton station, exceeded track speed limits, and repeatedly stopped beyond the correct mark.
The article also highlighted further concerns. The driver reportedly used wireless earbuds during safety tasks, sounded the traffic whistle without cause, and failed to declare medication that could impair performance. Each action increased the risk to passengers, staff, and the public.
Despite these safety breaches, however, the employee was not fired. Instead, he was demoted to a train guard and given a final warning.
The driver claimed he did not realise the tea contained opioids, as it was made by his partner.
What This Means for Queensland Workplaces
This case highlights the critical role of workplace drug testing in Queensland. Whether you manage a transport company, construction site, warehouse, or rail operations, the risks of impairment are similar:
- Employees operating heavy machinery or vehicles while impaired can cause serious accidents.
- Employers can face lawsuits, fines, and regulatory action if they fail to provide a safe workplace.
- A single incident can harm a company’s standing with customers, investors, and the community.
Random and targeted drug testing programs can identify problems before tragedy strikes. But testing alone is not enough. Employers must also have clear policies, consistent enforcement, and education so staff understand the dangers of drugs and alcohol.
Poppy Seeds and Other Hidden Risks
As the train driver incident highlights, it’s not just illegal drugs that can lead to failed drug testing in Queensland. The driver’s claim that he drank poppy seed tea is a little unusual but certainly not unique. Poppy seeds, while legal in foods such as bread, can contain trace amounts of morphine and codeine. In large quantities—especially in homemade teas—these compounds can produce a “high” and trigger a positive drug test.
This is a reminder that employees may test positive even when they believe they are acting responsibly. It also highlights while drug and alcohol education is essential. As part of this education, employees should be warned that certain foods, over-the-counter medicines, and prescription drugs can affect drug testing. At the same time, employers must encourage workers to disclose medications and other substances they take that could impair performance.
Drug Testing and Management in Queensland is Building a Safer Workplace
A robust drug and alcohol management plan includes several key elements:
- A clear policy that outlines expectations, testing procedures, and consequences for breaches.
- Regular testing that may include random, scheduled, and targeted testing to deter use and catch issues early.
- Education so employees know how drugs and alcohol affect safety and testing.
- Support for those who need help.
For businesses looking for help, Integrity Sampling offers a complete drug and alcohol management solution. Our Queensland team has locations in Brisbane, Cairns, Gold Coast, Mackay, Maryborough, Rockhampton, Sunshine Coast and Townsville.
We help employers:
- Develop and review drug and alcohol policies
- Conduct workplace drug and alcohol testing, including random, pre-employment, and post-incident testing
- Provide education to the workforce on the risks of drugs and alcohol
The recent Queensland Rail case is a wake-up call. Don’t wait for an incident to expose gaps in your safety procedures. With professional support and strong policies, you can protect your employees, your customers, and your reputation.
FEATURED IMAGE CAPTION:
A recent Queensland Rail case shows why workplace drug testing in Queensland is vital. Learn how Integrity Sampling can help protect your business with drug testing, policies, and education. Credit Leonard J Matthew https://www.flickr.com/photos/mythoto/19921882429/
