When Northern Territory Police ran a major traffic operation earlier this month, it turned out that 13 was an unlucky number for some drivers.
Over seven days in early September, officers from Alice Springs, Darwin and Katherine joined forces for the Red Centre Nats Operation. The festival in Alice Springs showcases everything on wheels. While the popular event attracted thousands hell-bent on having fun, the goal of the Police was to make sure they did so safely. And while most did, the figures show that not everyone put safety first.
As part of safety efforts, Northern Territory Police set up 13 random alcohol and drug testing stations. Over the course of the festival they carried out 2,183 drug and alcohol tests. From these test, eight drivers returned positive alcohol testing readings and four tested positive for drugs.
The figures show that while there were a few people who were willing to take risks, the majority of drivers were responsible.
It should be noted that drug and alcohol testing was not the Police’s only focus. Officers intercepted 77 vehicles, issued 27 infringement notices and arrested two drivers. This resulted in 13 (there’s that number again!) Notices to Appear in court. Speed cameras checked more than 5,300 vehicles and recorded 160 infringements. During the Red CentreNats street parade, police also seized five vehicles for hooning offences despite giving several warnings.
Acting Senior Sergeant Aaron Evans said that while most drivers were well behaved, it was disappointing that there were some who put themselves and others at risk. He added that Northern Territory Police could be on the roads anywhere and at any time.
When it comes to drugs and alcohol, this means that if you take a risk, the chances of Police catching you with testing is ever present.
From Northern Territory’s roads to the workplace
This Northern Territory Police operation may have focused on the roads, but the lesson extends beyond this. It reminds us that drug and alcohol misuse can surface anywhere. If someone is willing to risk fines, arrests and their own safety by driving under the influence, they may also take similar chances at work.
Drug and alcohol use does not stop when the car is parked. An individual who drives after using drugs may also arrive at their workplace impaired. In safety-sensitive industries such as transport, construction, mining or manufacturing, that risk can be deadly. Heavy machinery, complex equipment and dangerous environments all demand clear judgment and full attention. A single impaired employee can create serious hazards for themselves, their co-workers and the public.
That is why workplace drug and alcohol testing is essential. Just as Northern Territory Police run random operations to keep roads safe, smart employers are using drug and alcohol testing providers like Integrity Sampling to help keep their sites safe. Testing acts as both a deterrent and a safeguard, ensuring that everyone goes home healthy at the end of the day.
Integrity Sampling: Drug and Alcohol Testing in the NT
Integrity Sampling helps businesses meet the challenge of conducting drug and alcohol testing across Northern Territory’s workplaces. We operate three branches—Darwin, Alice Springs and Katherine—to provide a full range of drug and alcohol testing services wherever you need them.
Our team offers:
- Workplace drug and alcohol testing – including random, under suspicion, pre-employment and post-incident testing.
- Policy development and reviews – helping you create or update a clear, effective drug and alcohol policy.
- Education and training – giving managers, supervisors and employees the knowledge to understand risks and stay compliant.
We use the latest equipment and follow strict procedures to deliver accurate results. Our goal is to reduce risk, support safety and protect your workforce, just as NT Police aim to protect road users.
For more information on our drug and alcohol testing in the NT, or to connect with our teams in Darwin, Alice Springs or Katherine—contact Integrity Sampling today.
Together we can create safer workplaces and safer communities.
FEATURED IMAGE CAPTION:
A recent NT Police traffic blitz shows how people still risk driving under the influence. This again highlights why strong drug and alcohol testing in the NT is vital for workplaces and communities. Credit Alli Polin https://shorturl.at/affHN (image modified).
