Have you done what you need to for the lower alcohol limit?
As of the 1st of December, New Zealand’s breath and blood/ alcohol limit for drivers 20 years old and over; was lowered from 400mcg of alcohol per litre of breath (80 mg per 100ml of blood) to 250mcg of alcohol per litre of breath (50 mg per 100ml of blood). In reality this can be equated to roughly two standard drinks over a period of two hours.
What does this mean for employers?
- Educate your employees
- Make sure your motor vehicle policy is up to date
- Where necessary provide transport home especially after your work Christmas function
What are the new rules?
- If you fail a breath test by blowing between 251- 400mcg of alcohol per litre of breath, you'll be hit with a $200 fine and 50 demerit points
- If you fail with over 400mcg, you'll face criminal charges
- If you undergo a blood test and return results between 51- 80mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood, you'll receive a $700 fine and 50 demerit points
- If you show a blood test result of more than 80mg, you'll face criminal charges
- If you refuse to give a blood test and are convicted for a first or second offence, you face a fine of up to $4,500, a licence disqualification of at least six months and a prison sentence of up to three months
Remember drinking and driving should always be avoided especially after a big night out as you may still be over the new limit in the morning.