Static Random Breath Testing (RBT) will be suspended in two states across Australia amid the coronavirus outbreak.
New South Wales and Queensland will all suspend RBTs immediately as fears grow that police officers could be exposed to coronavirus during testing.
This is the first time the roadside alcohol testing has been suspended since it was introduced.
“The decision has been made to minimise health risks to QPS officers and the community,” a Queensland Police statement read.
“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.”
NSW Police shared a similar statement on Monday.
“The NSWPF Executive is taking measures to keep our workforce healthy and ready to maintain the highest level of response to the community of NSW,” the statement read. “The Police Commissioner, in consultation with the Minister for Emergency Services, has determined police officers may decide it is not reasonable to undertake stationary RBT and RDT in the current climate.”
Despite the suspended testing, police have stressed that this is not an excuse to drink drive. No seriously, don’t be that guy. Officers still have the power to pull you over and charge you to the full extent of the law.
The news comes as Australia hits 300 confirmed cases and governments begin to enter a state of emergency.
