Helping hospitality and event managers deal with patrons using illicit drugs
Help hospitality and event managers deal with a situation where a patron has used illicit drugs
People use a range of illicit drugs, including ecstasy and methamphetamine, in settings such as nightclubs, pubs and live music events, including raves and dance parties.
This web page is for people who manage premises or organise such events and provides information on how to prevent and reduce the use of illicit drugs and the harm that may result.
It is recognised that the places and environments covered in this information can differ markedly from each other. For example, the issues faced by a person managing a fixed-licensed premise such as a pub or nightclub will be different to a person organising an event such as an outdoor, one-off music festival.
While most hospitality services and events are licensed to sell alcohol, it is recognised that not all may be. Given the danger of consuming alcohol together with illicit drugs, this information is of particular relevance to people who work in a licensed premise or who hold a liquor licence for their event.
With the current concern in our society about binge drinking it is only natural that licensees and their staff will have a strong focus on alcohol. However, illicit drug use or drug dealing should not be overlooked as an issue.
The strategies and actions suggested below are not confined to drug use issues, but are the sorts of things that contribute to a safe environment for patrons and staff generally.
Illicit drug use in and around venues and events can be associated with a number of health and legal risks to patrons and staff including:
By taking some simple actions the risks associated with illicit drug use at events or venues can be reduced and the following benefits will result:
Develop operating procedures that protect the safety and health of patrons and staff.