How to Become an Accredited Workplace Drug and Alcohol Tester in Australia
Workplace drug and alcohol testing plays a vital role in keeping Australian worksites safe. Accredited testers help employers meet legal obligations, reduce risks, and ensure every worker is fit for duty. If you’re considering a career in this field, here’s what you need to know about becoming an accredited workplace drug and alcohol tester.
What Does a Workplace Drug and Alcohol Tester Do?
Accredited testers conduct a range of tests to identify whether an employee is under the influence of alcohol, illicit substances, or prescription medications that may impact their performance. Common testing methods include:
- Breath alcohol testing
- Oral fluid (saliva) testing
- Urine specimen collection
These tests can detect substances such as cannabis (THC), amphetamines, cocaine, opiates, and benzodiazepines.
Why Is Workplace Drug and Alcohol Testing Important?
Testing is a key part of workplace health and safety programs. The primary goal is to ensure that employees are fit for work and that risks of incidents or accidents are minimised.
Testing may be carried out as:
- Pre-employment screening – ensuring new hires are suitable for safety-sensitive roles.
- Post-incident testing – determining whether substances contributed to an accident.
- Reasonable suspicion testing – where impairment is suspected.
- Random testing – regular testing of a selected group of employees.
Duties and Responsibilities of an Accredited Tester
Accredited testers must be able to:
- Prepare the testing area and equipment.
- Explain testing procedures clearly to participants.
- Conduct tests in compliance with Australian Standards.
- Follow strict chain of custody processes.
- Prepare non-negative samples for laboratory analysis.
- Report and communicate results to supervisors and managers.
What Qualifications Do You Need to Become Accredited?
In Australia, formal training is required to conduct workplace drug and alcohol testing. The nationally recognised unit of competency is:
HLTPAT005 – Collect Specimens for Drugs of Abuse Testing
This course provides the knowledge and skills needed to perform testing in compliance with industry and legal standards. It covers:
- Oral and urine specimen collection
- Documentation and record-keeping
- Chain of custody requirements
- Practical skills for workplace testing
Training is typically delivered in a one-day format (or blended online + practical assessment).
Your Pathway to Becoming a Certified Drug and Alcohol Tester
- Complete the HLTPAT010 Collect specimens for drugs of abuse testing training with a nationally recognised provider such as KINNECT Training.
- Demonstrate competence in both theory and practical assessments.
- Receive your Statement of Attainment and start working as an accredited workplace tester.
Career Opportunities for Accredited Testers
Accredited testers are in demand across industries such as:
- Mining and resources
- Construction
- Transport and logistics
- Manufacturing
- Government and local councils
This qualification is also valuable for HR professionals, safety officers, and health providers who want to support workplace compliance.
Get Started Today
If you’re ready to become a nationally accredited workplace drug and alcohol tester, KINNECT Training offers the Workplace Drug and Alcohol Testing Course (HLTPAT010 Collect specimens for drugs of abuse testing).