Starting 1 June 2025, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) will enforce new regulations requiring all domestic commercial vessel (DCV) operators to incorporate a drug and alcohol policy within their Safety Management Systems (SMS).
This change aims to reduce the risks associated with substance use in maritime workplaces and ensure all crew, personnel, and passengers remain safe at sea .
If you operate a DCV or hire-and-drive vessel, it’s essential to understand these requirements and take proactive steps to ensure compliance. This guide outlines what the new AMSA rules mean for operators, what your drug and alcohol policy must include, and how to implement effective testing procedures.
FURTHER READING:
AMSA Drug and alcohol policy - Class 1, 2 and 3
AMSA Drug and alcohol policy - Class 4
What are the new AMSA drug and alcohol policy requirements?
Under the updated regulations, all DCV and hire-and-drive operators must have a clear policy outlining how they will manage the risks of drug and alcohol use within their SMS. The policy must ensure that:
- All masters, crew, and special personnel are aware of the drug and alcohol policy.
- All workers are assessed as fit to perform their duties.
- No one is impaired by drugs or alcohol while working.
Additionally, operators of passenger-carrying vessels must also include a policy on how they will manage drug and alcohol risks for passengers onboard.
The level of detail in your policy depends on the size and complexity of your operation
DRAFT A POLICY: What employers need to know about workplace drug testing.
Why is AMSA enforcing these new policies?
The maritime industry carries significant safety risks, and AMSA’s decision to mandate drug and alcohol policies is based on the need to reduce impairment-related accidents. The updated regulations aim to:
- Improve safety for crew, passengers, and all maritime workers.
- Reduce the risk of accidents caused by impairment.
- Ensure consistency across the industry with clear testing and compliance procedures
How can maritime operators comply with AMSA’s drug and alcohol requirements?
To meet AMSA’s standards, maritime operators should take the following steps:
1. Develop a clear drug and alcohol policy
- Define acceptable drug and alcohol limits for crew and personnel.
- Outline testing procedures (pre-employment, random, post-incident).
- Specify the consequences of non-compliance.
2. Train crew and staff on policy enforcement
- Ensure all personnel understand the drug and alcohol policy.
- Provide ongoing education on substance use risks and testing procedures.
3. Implement alcohol and drug testing procedures
- Use breathalysers for alcohol testing before duty shifts.
- Conduct random drug testing using AS/NZS 4308 (urine) or AS/NZS 4760 (saliva) compliant drug test kits.
- Require post-incident testing to determine impairment following workplace accidents.
4. Regularly review and update your policy
- Monitor effectiveness and make adjustments as needed.
- Keep records of testing results, training sessions, and policy reviews.
Choosing the right drug and alcohol testing solutions for compliance
To ensure compliance, operators must use reliable testing equipment. Andatech provides Australian Standards-certified breathalysers and drug test kits tailored for maritime workplaces, helping operators meet AMSA’s new requirements. Recommended solutions include:
✅ Breathalysers – AS 3547 certified for accurate alcohol testing.
✅ Drug test kits – AS 4308 or AS 4760 compliant for urine and saliva drug testing.
Maritime safety made easy with Andatech
With AMSA’s 2025 regulations making drug and alcohol policies mandatory for DCV and hire-and-drive operators, now is the time to take action.
Implementing a clear, compliant policy and using accurate testing solutions will ensure your business meets AMSA’s new safety standards and protects both crew and passengers.
📌 Book a free consultation with an Andatech drug and alcohol testing specialist to learn the essentials when crafting a D&A testing policy today!
