ACT Policing is to continue to conduct random breath testing during the COVID-19 outbreak.
The announcement came as breath testing operations were suspended by NSW, Queensland and Victorian police due to the potential health risk to officers.
“ACT Police uses a targeted, intelligence-led approach to deter, detect and remove impaired drivers from our roads,” ACT Policing said.
“This approach will continue during the response to COVID-19.”
It said advice had been provided to officers to maximise hygiene controls during roadside alcohol and drug testing.
“The public should continue to expect that roadside alcohol or drug testing can happen anywhere, any time on any road by police in marked and unmarked police vehicles,” ACT Policing said.
“In the past few years, rather than a large-scale static approach to roadside testing, every ACT Policing member conducts random breath testing and we work hard to ensure we have the right people, in the right place, at the right time.”
It said ACT Policing would continue to act on the most current health advice and review its practices to ensure the safety of its members and the community.
“Reducing road trauma remains a whole of community approach,” ACT Policing said.
“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility – if you are drinking, ensure you have a designated driver or find another way home.”
