HR to Go
HR to Go
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Ep 25: Drug Testing at Work - Risk, Medicinal Cannabis & the Leadership Mindset Shift
39 minutes Posted Feb 17, 2026 at 1:52 am.
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Show notes
Drug and alcohol testing is designed to reduce workplace risk — but is it enough?
In this episode of HR2Go, Karen Arnold speaks with Associate Professor David Allen from Drug & Alcohol Solutions Australia about alcohol, drugs and impairment in Australian workplaces.
They discuss:
• Workplace drug testing and WHS obligations• The rise of medicinal cannabis prescriptions• Impairment vs trace detection• Policy clarity and the Sydney Trains case• Practical steps when an employee tests positive
This conversation explores how employers can balance safety, fairness and wellbeing — while managing increasing regulatory and psychosocial risk.
A must-listen for HR leaders, business owners and executives navigating workplace drug and alcohol policy in Australia.
For tailored HR and employment advice, visit ewsolutions.com.au.