Drug use and safety

Many psychoactive drugs, including alcohol, have effects on the brain and behaviour that make operating machinery, and particularly driving a vehicle, more dangerous. This can have far-reaching implications, not only for safety in the workplace, but for the potential to cause harm to others.

Many people underestimate the risks involved in driving after drinking or using illegal or prescription drugs. The 2013 Australian National Drug Strategy Household Survey reported that 12% of those who had consumed alcohol in the past year, and 16% of those who had used an illegal drug in the last year, had driven while under the influence of the drug.

For more information, see alcohol, drugs and driving.