ALCOHOL AND DRUG GUIDELINES

July 2016
Surf Life Saving Queensland is committed to raising the awareness of the health and safety issues associated with the consumption of alcohol and use of drugs (including medical drugs). The aim of this guideline is to ensure the provision of a healthy environment and to ensure the use of drugs or alcohol does not compromise the safety or health of lifesaving personnel or others.

ALCOHOL

• It is recommended that lifesavers abstain from consuming alcohol 12-24 hours prior to patrol to ensure 0% balance at the commencement of their duty;
• Members are not permitted to have a blood alcohol content exceeding 0.05 at the commencement of any patrol;
• Alcohol is not to be consumed whilst wearing any SLSA patrol uniform apparel; and
• Members are not permitted to enter a licensed area whilst on duty or dressed in a SLSA patrol uniform.
  

DRUGS

• The use of non-prescribed drugs is completely and utterly abhorred by SLSQ, and will not be condoned to any degree;
• Personnel shall not present themselves for duty whilst under the influence of any illegal drug;
• The use of drugs properly prescribed by a doctor for medicinal or recuperative purposes may be taken however the patrol captain must be advised as to the type of medication and all possible side effects; and
• If these prescribed drugs impair or disrupt your senses (i.e. anti-histamine), you must advise the patrol captain immediately and stand down from your duties until the cessation of the prescription.
  

OPERATING PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Operators need to be aware that operating plant and equipment, including vehicles and power craft, under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol can be dangerous. Operators must also be aware of the legal requirements covering the operation of different classes of vehicles and power craft, which require a maximum blood alcohol reading of 0.05 and may in some cases, require zero tolerance for operating certain types of equipment.

EDUCATION AND AWARENESS
Where appropriate, information explaining the dangers of drugs and alcohol abuse, particularly as it relates to health and safety, may be provided. In addition, where it is considered appropriate, advice on counselling and appropriate treatment may be made available.

PENALTIES
Personnel presenting themselves for duty whilst under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs shall be immediately suspended from duties and may be referred for disciplinary action. Cases that indicate evidence of illegal drug use will be referred to the appropriate authorities for investigation.