Drug and Alcohol Awareness Toolbox Talk Template

Purpose of this document

This free Drug and Alcohol Awareness Toolbox Talk Template provides a structured approach for discussing the impact of drugs and alcohol on workplace safety directly with your team. This Toolbox Talk is designed to facilitate open communication about policies, responsibilities, and support mechanisms related to substance use.

It serves as a foundational resource for employers to address the risks associated with drug and alcohol impairment, fostering a safer and healthier working environment.

Using this template helps ensure that all workers understand the serious implications of working under the influence, promoting a culture where safety is a shared responsibility. It also aids in outlining your organisation's expectations and the support available, aligning with relevant Australian WHS practice for managing workplace hazards.

How to use this Toolbox Talk

This Drug and Alcohol Awareness Toolbox Talk Template is provided in an editable DOCX format, making it easy to customise for your specific workplace needs and context. It is essential that this document is customised to your workplace’s specific drug and alcohol policy, procedures, and any related support programmes.

For best results, we recommend preparing to lead the discussion by reviewing your company policy and any recent incidents or near misses that might be relevant to highlight.

Deliver the Toolbox Talk in a quiet, undisturbed area, encouraging active participation from all attendees. Document who attended, key discussion points, and any actions agreed upon to maintain a record of your safety briefings.

WHS management systems often include provisions for recording such training and discussions.

When to use it

Use this Drug and Alcohol Awareness Toolbox Talk Template as part of your regular safety meeting schedule, particularly:

• During induction for new employees, to set clear expectations from the outset.
• When reviewing or updating your organisation's drug and alcohol policy.
• After any incident or near-miss where substance impairment might have been a contributing factor.
• As a refresher to reinforce safe behaviours and remind workers of available support.
• Before commencing high-risk tasks or projects where impairment could have severe consequences.

Who should use it

This Drug and Alcohol Awareness Toolbox Talk is suitable for supervisors, team leaders, or WHS representatives responsible for conducting safety briefings and communicating WHS information to workers. It is also highly beneficial for all workers, including contractors and temporary staff, as it directly addresses their responsibilities and rights relating to drug and alcohol use in the workplace.

Those involved in developing or implementing WHS policies will find this template a valuable tool for translating policy into practical, conversational safety messages.