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Impairment can be the result of any number of factors, including stress, fatigue and workplace conditions. The issue of impairment caused by drugs and/or alcohol, however, is one that has been in the media lately.

Reps attending this afternoon workshop heard presentations from:

• Jack Walsh, Business Manager - Drug Testing, Siemens Medical Solutions
• Associate Professor John Fitzgerald, VicHealth Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Health and Society, University of Melbourne
• Trevor Sharp, Building Trades Drug and Alcohol Program
• Brendon Gale, CEO AFL Players’ Association
• Steve Baltas, Manager, Strategic Policy Branch VWA

Note: In 2006 the ACTU Executive endorsed the Alcohol and Other Drugs in the Workplace Policy [pdf]. The policy provides a framework for employers and workers to follow when dealing with issues relating to the consumption of alcohol and other drugs and to meet their obligations under relevant OHS legislation.

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• John Merritt - Executive Director WorkSafe

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• Panel Discussion:

  After the key note addresses and morning tea, there was a panel discussion entitled "Difference of Opinion". The panel included representatives from unions, employer groups, OHS professionals and WorkSafe....read more

• Negotiating around OHS/Communicating with members

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• Fatigue

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• Zero Occupational Cancer Workshop

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