Aged care peak body Aged & Community Services Australia (ACSA) has launched a new drug and alcohol policy resource for employers.
The resource, developed in consultation with the Drug Detection Agency (TDDA), provides internal templates and guidelines for members, as well a training and education package for staff, delivered by TDDA.
The resource raises awareness of the responsibilities of staff and executive to ensure a safe workplace and provides guidance for employers on appropriate procedures and how to support employees who need assistance.
“The aim is obviously to discourage intoxication in any form in the workplace, and the policy prohibits all workers from working or conducting company business under the influence of drugs or alcohol, but there are also avenues within the policy for staff to access rehabilitation and counselling services should they require them,” ACSA’s acting CEO Darren Mathewson said.
“The safety of residents and clients is the number one priority for aged care providers, and this policy will help ensure our workforce is consistently providing the highest standard of care and services to older Australians.”
The member resource was launched at its NSW state conference in Sydney on Wednesday.
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