Two former bar staff members at the Imperial Hotel in the inner-Sydney suburb of Erskineville have had their credentials suspended for taking illicit drugs and drinking alcohol while on the job.

The bar supervisor's responsible service of alcohol (RSA) certification was suspended for six months by the Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority (ILGA) following an application by the NSW Government Office of Liquor, Gaming and Racing (OLGR).

A bar attendant at the hotel had his RSA certification suspended by the Authority for seven days.

It is not the first time the iconic pub has caught the attention for licence breaches.

Earlier this year, the venue was forced to close twice in as many months for repeated drug and security breaches.

Staff 'consumed drugs in front of patrons'

In June this year, OLGR inspectors observed the two men consuming illicit drugs at the Imperial Hotel while working.

"The bar supervisor removed two ecstasy capsules from a bottle and gave one to the bar attendant before both men consumed the drugs at the bar, in front of patrons," an OLGR statement said.

"After consuming the capsules, the bar attendant continued to serve alcohol to patrons. The supervisor also poured shots of alcohol, which he and the bar attendant consumed in front of patrons."

OLGR director of compliance and enforcement Anthony Keon said the two men had failed their obligations under the Liquor Act.

"It is totally unacceptable for licensed venue staff to consume illicit drugs or alcohol while on the job," Mr Keon said.

"Not only is it illegal, but a combination of drugs and high-strength alcohol shots can be dangerous and their effects would impair a person's ability to carry out their responsible service of alcohol duties safely, competently and as required by the legislation."

ILGA chief executive Micheil Brodie said the bar supervisor abused his position of authority.

"His actions added to a permissive and unsafe environment for both staff and the public," he said.

"A suspension of his competency card for six months is an appropriate and reasonable response.

"The Authority has determined that a suspension of the bar attendant's competency card for seven days is appropriate after considering his acknowledgment of responsibility and remorse and his new employment in a more responsible environment."