1.2 Drugs and Alcohol
Purpose
To ensure the health and safety of all SLSSA members by prohibiting the use of tobacco, alcohol, and drugs while on duty. This commitment is rooted in the medical evidence linking substance use to significant health risks and the potential for impaired performance in lifesaving operations.
Overview
This SOP outlines the restrictions on smoking, alcohol consumption, and drug use for SLS personnel, emphasising the importance of maintaining a safe environment during active duties. It details the responsibilities of personnel regarding substance use and the consequences for non-compliance, including disciplinary action and potential referral to authorities for illegal drug use.
SLSSA is committed to protecting members from the harmful effects of drugs, including nicotine, and alcohol. This is supported by medical evidence linking smoking (both passive and active) and alcohol to diseases like lung cancer and heart disease. SLSSA ensures, as far as reasonably practicable, a safe environment for all members.
This procedure serves as a practical guide to understanding and managing drugs and alcohol within your club. While it provides essential information and recommended practices, it is not a substitute for the obligations and responsibilities that the Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU) must uphold under the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act 2012. Clubs must ensure compliance with all legal requirements, and this guide should be used to complement, not replace, the mandatory duties outlined in the legislation.
Smoking
Smoking, including the use of e-cigarettes (vapes) and any similar devices, is not permitted while undertaking Surf Life Saving duties.
Smoking of any substance is prohibited in all SLS buildings, facilities, and vehicles.
SLS personnel must not smoke while:
- Undertaking authorised Surf Life Saving duties,
- Wearing a Surf Life Saving uniform in public, or
- Acting in an official capacity on behalf of Surf Life Saving.
Smoking brings with it additional hazards in terms of fire safety. SLS personnel must ensure others do not smoke near oxygen equipment, fuel or in other circumstances where there is an increased risk of fire or explosion.
Alcohol
Alcohol must not be consumed whilst wearing any patrol uniform.
SLS personnel must not undertake patrol duties, incident response, or operate any SLS vehicles or equipment if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is at or above 0.05%.
Personnel subject to a zero BAC requirement under road laws (e.g. provisional drivers) must comply with those requirements at all times.
SLS personnel may be subject to alcohol and drug testing in accordance with SLSSA policy and applicable legislation.
Drugs
SLS personnel are responsible for monitoring their own condition and communicating any (relevant) changes in medical state to their Patrol Captain or supervisor.
The use of drugs prescribed by a doctor for medicinal or recuperative purposes may be taken, however the Patrol Captain or supervisor must be advised as to the type of medication and all possible side effects.
If these prescribed drugs affect your wellbeing or impair or disrupt your senses, you must advise the Patrol Captain or supervisor immediately and cease patrol duties until you have completed the prescribed course of medication.
The improper use of non-prescription and/or prescription drugs during duties is prohibited.
Impairment and Fitness for Duty
SLS personnel must not undertake any duties while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or medication that affects their ability to perform safely. This includes the operation of all lifesaving equipment, vehicles, and powercraft.
SLS personnel must adhere to all legal blood alcohol limits for the operation of gear and equipment, including any type of lifesaving vehicles, SSVs, e-bikes and Powercraft of all types and UAVs.
Persons impaired by drugs and/or alcohol are not permitted to operate gear and equipment under any circumstances.
SLS personnel who present themselves for duty whilst suspected to be under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs may be immediately suspended from duties and referred for disciplinary action.
Any SLS personnel who knowingly allows a person to carry out duties whilst under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs may also be subject to disciplinary action.
Cases that indicate evidence of illegal drug use will be referred to the appropriate authorities for investigation.
References