Queensland workplaces are governed by strict health and safety obligations—especially when it comes to drug and alcohol use on the job. While many Australians are familiar with national WHS guidelines, those operating in Queensland need to be aware of state-specific laws and penalties.
This blog explores workplace drug testing laws in Queensland, the legal responsibilities of employers, and how to build a compliant workplace drug and alcohol policy that aligns with WHS requirements.
Why drug and alcohol testing matters in Queensland workplaces
According to the Queensland Government, employers must ensure, “so far as is reasonably practicable,” the health and safety of workers under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (QLD).
This includes managing risks associated with employees who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Industries such as mining, construction, transport, and logistics often have higher scrutiny and more robust testing policies in place.
How drug and alcohol testing fits into QLD’s risk management requirements
Queensland’s Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 outlines clear duties for managing risks to health and safety in the workplace. Employers and duty holders must:
- Identify reasonably foreseeable hazards (such as impaired workers)
- Eliminate or minimise those risks so far as is reasonably practicable
- Implement control measures following the hierarchy of controls—starting with elimination and isolation, and if that’s not possible, administrative controls like policies and testing programs.
This is where drug and alcohol testing becomes critical.
Testing programs—alongside education and support—are considered a form of administrative control, helping to reduce impairment risks that can't be eliminated entirely. When combined with fit-for-purpose equipment (like AS-certified breathalysers and drug test kits) and clear company procedures, they meet the regulation’s requirement that all control measures be:
- Fit for purpose
- Suitable for the nature and duration of the work
- Maintained and reviewed regularly
Workplaces are also required to review their control measures if new risks are identified, procedures change, or incidents occur. This reinforces the importance of ongoing testing, training, and consultation to keep your safety protocols current and effective.
Queensland HR Guideline E16 - Fitness for Duty
HR Guideline E16 - Fitness for Duty specifically mentions that no employee is to attend work under the influence of alcohol or when experiencing the effects of a hangover.
This lays the groundwork for implementing QLD alcohol testing WHS policies and justifies the use of workplace drug test kits and breathalysers as part of risk management.
Queensland mining sector: Mandatory testing in safety-critical roles
The Coal Mining Safety and Health Regulation 2017 (QLD) In Queensland's mining sector, alcohol consumption and testing protocols are strictly governed by the Coal Mining Safety and Health Regulation 2017. These regulations are designed to reduce the risks associated with alcohol use in one of the state’s most safety-critical industries.
Key requirements include:
- Restricted alcohol consumption: Alcohol may only be consumed in designated accommodation buildings or recreational areas approved by the site senior executive.
- Zero tolerance for impairment: No person is allowed to carry out a work activity or enter a working area of the mine while under the influence of alcohol.
-
Mandatory safety and health management systems: Every coal mine must implement a system to control alcohol-related risks, which must include:
- Education programs about alcohol use
- Employee assistance programs (EAPs)
-
A robust testing framework, including:
- Voluntary self-testing
- Random testing before work begins
- Targeted testing if someone is reasonably suspected of being under the influence
These measures form part of the mine’s broader fitness for work provisions, which must be developed in consultation with worker representatives to ensure fairness and effectiveness.
Transport and heavy vehicle drivers in Queensland
Under the Heavy Vehicle National Law (Queensland), transport operators must ensure drivers are fit for duty—which includes being free from the influence of drugs and alcohol (source).
While not all operators must implement testing, many adopt saliva drug tests and alcohol breath testing to protect drivers, meet fatigue laws, and uphold safety.
Drug and alcohol testing methods allowed in Queensland
Workplace testing in Queensland typically uses:
- Saliva drug testing (fast, non-invasive, ideal for onsite)
- Urine drug testing (detects longer usage window)
- Alcohol breath testing (immediate BAC results)
These must comply with AS/NZS 4308 (urine), AS/NZS 4760 (saliva), and AS 3547 (breathalysers).
Explore compliant tools here:
How to build a compliant drug and alcohol policy in QLD
To meet QLD drug testing WHS rules, employers should:
- Identify safety-critical roles
- Conduct risk assessments
- Consult with staff and safety reps
- Specify testing types (random, post-incident, reasonable suspicion)
- Include education, disciplinary processes, and support pathways
For a full walkthrough, read our guide on What to Include in Your Drug and Alcohol Policy.
Stay ahead of QLD workplace drug testing compliance
Queensland-specific laws make it clear: drug and alcohol testing is more than a suggestion—it’s a responsibility.
Whether you’re a WHS manager, employer, or team leader, being informed on workplace drug testing laws in Queensland can help reduce risks, ensure compliance, and most importantly, protect lives.
Contact Andatech for free consultation on creating a safer and compliant workplace, free from impairment.
