Tasmania Police implement changes to roadside alcohol and drug testing to prevent coronavirus spread

Tasmania Police is suspending large-scale random breath testing operations to reduce the risk of coronavirus transmission. But they’ve reinforced that motorists will still be sprung if they drive under the influence.

Tasmania Police has announced it will suspend large-scale random breath tests to help prevent the spread of coronavirus. Picture: LUKE BOWDEN

TASMANIA Police has suspended large-scale, random breath testing in a bid to reduce coronavirus transmission.

The force revealed its plans last night, following quickly on the heels of similar bans in NSW, Victoria and Queensland the day before.

The temporary bans also apply to random drug testing.

Deputy Commissioner Scott Tilyard said the decision had been made to protect the health of police officers and the Tasmanian community, in line with other jurisdictions.

But the new rules won’t be a licence to drink and drive, with Deputy Commissioner Tilyard saying the suspension didn’t mean that “other forms” of random breath and drug testing would stop.

He said police on patrol would still target motorists doing the wrong thing.

“This will allow more time for police on the roads with an increased focus on targeted breath and drug testing and high-visibility patrolling, which are methods we already utilise,” he said.

He said the suspension would take effect immediately and remain in place until further notice.