'Minimising risk': Police suspend some drink driving tests amid coronavirus
Most Australian states have suspended some random breath testing operations in order to reduce the further spread of coronavirus.
The Queensland Police Service (QPS) has announced starting today until further notice multi-vehicle roadside breath and drug tests have been suspended.
In a statement QPS said the reason for this was to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission.
“The decision has been made to minimise health risks to QPS officers and the community,” the statement reads.
“Road safety continues to be a significant priority for the QPS.
“The QPS will continue to undertake random breath and drug testing through high visibility mobile patrols.”
Western Australia Police Force has followed suit and will temporarily suspended the Breath and Drug Bus operations.
“These operations are a high-volume static testing involving many motorists and officers and this decision is intended to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission,” WA Police said in a statement issued online.
Like Queensland, the suspension will remain in place until further notice.
In a statement to Yahoo News Australia, NSW Police confirmed they would also be taking measures to minimise the risk of transmission and protect officers.
“More than half of stationary Random Breath Tests (RBT) and Random Drug Tests (RBT) conducted across the state are conducted by first responders,” NSW Police said in the statement.
“Due to the current climate, the Police Commissioner has asked Commanders to use their discretion in whether it is reasonable for officers to undertake stationary RBT and RDT.”
NSW Police said by taking these steps to protect the health of officers it would allow for officers to respond when required, as they anticipate there may be an increased demand for police in the coming weeks.
Victoria Police will also implemented changes.
“As a result of COVID-19 (coronavirus), Victoria Police will be changing the way alcohol testing is conducted across Victoria,” Victoria Police said in a statement.
“Police who usually operate the booze buses will be redeployed in police cars with a focus on impaired driving.”
Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton said yesterday breath testing will be done in mobile units, not static units.
“We want to be as visible as we can be to the community in the coming weeks to provide reassurance,” he said.
“We want to reassure community that public order is being enforced by police. We are here to keep the community safe as they move about.”
Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.
You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and download the Yahoo News app from the App Store or Google Play.
