Council staff face random drug tests
MATT WILLIAMS, REGIONAL EDITOR
December 08, 2006 01:15am
PORT Augusta Council will become the first in the state to conduct random drug tests on its employees.
Testing is expected to start early next year.
Mayor Joy Baluch warned any council workers against the idea to resign.
The tests would detect such prohibited substances as cannabis, speed and ecstasy.
"We're one of the highest employing organisations in Port Augusta with over 300 workers and (the tests) aim to keep our workplace safe for the benefit of the community," Mrs Baluch said yesterday.
"If people have nothing to fear, then there shouldn't be a problem.
"We have people in charge of heavy equipment and we also have people who work with the elderly in aged care, so I see this as an automatic process.
"Tests will be conducted three times annually. All employees will be tested eventually."
Local Government Association executive director Wendy Campana said the policy of random drug testing was an "issue being considered by the private sector". "There may be a place for it in more councils, providing there is appropriate consultation with employees," she said.
Each drug test will cost the council $50.
