Under the Road Traffic Ordinance, preliminary drug testing includes Drug Influence Recognition Observation, Impairment Test (IT), and Rapid Oral Fluid Test. The IT has proven to be an extremely important means with which officers can objectively assess, through scientific steps, whether a driver has been driving under the influence of drugs.

 

IT must be conducted at a designated Police Station, and the whole process will be video-recorded. IT trainees must be at the rank of Sergeant or above and posted to a Traffic formation. The trainees are required to undergo an intensive three-day course, which provides them with a good understanding of the legislation, scientific theory and practice of various tests and an appreciation of the impact that the seven main drugs will have on a driver. They are also required to pass a written exam and a practice assessment before being officially qualified as an IT officer.

 

The IT officers at the Regional Traffic formations are responsible for conducting the IT on drivers suspected of drug driving. A review of the effectiveness of the new procedures showed Sergeant (SGT) Sit Ching-fung from the Task Force of Traffic New Territories North is particularly capable of conducting IT. After enactment of the drug driving legislation, he has achieved to his credit 26 positive ITs, with all the drivers subsequently being found to have illicit drugs in their blood.

 

In recognition of his significant contribution to combatting drug driving, Chief Superintendent Traffic Paul Stripp presented a complimentary letter to SGT Sit at Traffic Branch Headquarters on August 21.

 

SGT Sit said the IT course was extremely practical and interesting, adding that the knowledge he gained from the course enhanced his professionalism. He applies the knowledge in his job and is pleased that he is able to help remove irresponsible drivers from the roads. He is looking forward to sharing his experience with fellow officers.