As reported in the Central Queensland News, the mining industry has a need for programs to eliminate drug consumption on mine sites to increase the mine safety. The Mining and Resources Contractors Safety Training Association will soon stage forums related to this topic. Some mine companies already have education and testing programs in their policies.
General manager [Jellinbah Mine, east of Blackwater] Ian Cooper said the site’s policy included pre-screening during site inductions, random and blanket site testing, as well as testing following incidents.
“The approach that the mine has taken is to provide awareness and education of the risks associated with taking any supplements or medications without the advice of an appropriately qualified medical practitioner.”