CSIRO is considering random drug testing for all staff, visitors, and contractors at its sites across the country. 

The proposed policy, if approved, would test for substances such as amphetamines, heroin, morphine, codeine, cannabinoids (including marijuana), and performance and image enhancing drugs (PIEDs).

The policy also includes a provision for cause testing, which would allow line managers to enforce immediate drug tests if they have “reasonable cause”.

‘Refusal to undergo the test would be treated as a positive test result. 

However, the policy has faced strong opposition from CSIRO staff, with the union, representing about 40 per cent of the workforce, raising concerns about privacy and the lack of consultation.

The CSIRO Staff Association has expressed worries about employees having to disclose sensitive medical information related to prescription medicines that could affect test results. 

It also criticised the inclusion of visitors in the testing program, considering it “unreasonable” and “pointless”. 

The union cited a lack of evidence to justify the need for the policy, as there have been no reported incidents involving employees under the influence of drugs or alcohol at CSIRO.

“CSIRO has no right to this information, and it is reasonable to expect that any loss of privacy is genuinely required to ensure safety,” says union secretary Susan Tonks.

The staff association highlighted concerns regarding the disproportionate measures, potential discrimination, and the lack of a relevant work and safety risk assessment prior to the proposal.

CSIRO management acknowledged receiving over 150 responses with feedback and queries, stating the need to consider various scenarios and circumstances in developing the procedure. 

While CSIRO stated its commitment to providing safe working environments, a consultation process with subject matter experts and the union is underway to gather more feedback on the policy.

Other research organisations have some comparable AOD policies. 

The Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) has a “strict” policy but does not currently conduct random testing. However, they are in the process of implementing a new policy that will include random tests. 

The Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) has a policy that subjects all employees, visitors, and contractors to random and for-cause testing. 

Research universities such as Sydney University, University of Melbourne, and Monash University have codes of conduct but do not enforce random testing.

The decision on internal staff policies lies with CSIRO as an independent agency, according to a spokesperson for Industry and Science Minister Ed Husic. 

CSIRO is set to commence negotiations for a new Enterprise Bargaining Agreement (EBA) with its staff, as the current agreement expires this year.