Under the RSNL rail transport operators (RTOs) are required to ensure, so far as reasonably practicable, that rail safety workers are not impaired by drugs or alcohol.
For RTOs accredited in respect of railway operations carried out within NSW (NSW RTOs) there are specific requirements for drug and alcohol testing.
NSW RTOs are required to test a minimum of 25 per cent of their rail safety workers annually and must only use urine to test for the presence of drugs. NSW RTOs are not prevented from using other testing methods, however they do not form part of the 25 per cent minimum requirement.
This creates national inconsistency in drug testing methods between NSW RTOs and RTOs in other jurisdictions that are not subject to the same requirements.
The proposed amendment will:
- remove the NSW RTO specific requirement to only use urine samples when testing for the presence of drugs while retaining the requirement that a minimum of 25 per cent of rail safety workers submit to random drug and alcohol testing annually; and
- better align the requirements applicable to NSW RTOs with the requirements applicable to RTOs based in other jurisdictions.
What to submit: We are seeking your feedback on the draft amendment. Read the explanatory document to help inform your response.
When to submit: Submissions close on 23 May 2024
How to submit: To have your say, click here.
