Drug & Alcohol Awareness in The Workplace

Alex McKinley
The misuse of alcohol and other drugs can have a damaging impact on individuals, families and communities. 

The effects of both alcohol and illicit drug use during and outside of work hours can have a negative impact on workplaces such as an increase in the risks to health and safety, poor workplace relationships, damage to an organisations reputation and loss of productivity in the workplace.

In this blog, we discuss drug and alcohol awareness in the workplace and how it can effect you. To learn more and share this knowledge with your workplace, enroll in the Drug and Alcohol Awarness Course - now available.
Workers under the influence present an injury hazard to themselves and also place their workmates in danger or in the difficult position of being expected to cover for unsafe work practices.

The consumption of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs is a major cause of preventable disease, illness and death in Australia. The use of alcohol and other drugs has a number of economic impacts relating to household expenditure, decreased productivity and healthcare and law enforcement costs.

Substance use can often begin as a recreational activity, but it can quickly become an addictive habit that impacts a person's health and wellbeing, and risks becoming a harmful disease.
If an addiction is left untreated, use and abuse can develop into drug dependence or alcoholism. As a result, it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of alcohol and drug abuse early.

WHAT IS SUBSTANCE ABUSE?

Substance abuse, also known as drug abuse, is the use of a drug in amounts or by methods which are harmful to the individual or others. It is a form of substance-related disorder. 

Substance abuse is the medical term used to describe a pattern of using a substance that causes significant problems or distress. This may be missing work or school, using the substance in dangerous situations, or in secret.

It may lead to substance-related legal problems, or continued substance use that interferes with friendships, family relationships, or both. 

Differing definitions of drug abuse are used in public health, medical and criminal justice contexts. In some cases, criminal or anti-social behaviour occurs when the person is under the influence of a drug, and long-term personality changes in individuals may also occur. In addition to possible physical, social, and psychological harm, the use of some drugs may also lead to criminal penalties, although these vary widely depending on the local jurisdiction.

Around 1 in 20 Australians has an addiction or substance abuse problem. It can result in changes and long-term damage to the brain and other organs. 

SIGNS OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE

Most people enjoy a drink now and again. But when someone loses control of their alcohol or drugs, when the substance starts causing harm like injuries or medical problems, damaging relationships or causing problems at work, then it can be a sign that the habit is becoming a problem.

People who abuse substances may become dependent. It means they don't feel the effects of the substance any more, and experience cravings or withdrawal symptoms when stopping.

It can be difficult to tell whether someone struggles with a drug or alcohol addiction, but in many cases, there are several key warning signs. If someone misuses drugs or alcohol, they may exhibit numerous physical signs of drug abuse. Some of these signs may be readily apparent while others are hidden, disguised or occur as gradual changes.

THE IMPORTANCE OF A DRUG AND ALCOHOL FREE WORKPLACE

A drug and alcohol-free workplace is one where employees are required to comply with a program and related policies and activities that are meant to provide a safe workplace, discourage drug and alcohol substance use disorders, and encourage the treatment and return of workers who have suffered from drug abuse. 

A drug and alcohol-free workplace program is intended to educate employees on the issues involved with substance abuse, including the negative consequences that can affect a person’s health, home life, and career.

The modern workplace is a more delicate environment than ever before. High labour turnovers, more detailed insurance policies, and office politics can all create a sense that businesses have to work harder to create a successful balance. One way of keeping the workplace functioning effectively is to better consider the health and wellbeing of employees, and one way of doing that is through the implementation of a drug-free workplace policy.

The use of alcohol and other drugs can impact on workplaces in a number of ways, affecting relationships, safety and productivity. Alcohol and drugs, including medicines prescribed by a doctor or available from a pharmacy, can affect a person’s ability to work safely.

All workers have a duty to take reasonable care for their own health and safety and ensure they don’t adversely affect that of others. This means they must be fit and well enough to do their job, not be under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or use alcohol or illegal drugs while at work.

PROMOTING A DRUG AND ALCOHOL FREE WORKPLACE CULTURE

Make sure that your workplace is ready for a drug and alcohol-free policy and program by informing, educating, training, and motivating everyone involved. A drug and alcohol-free workplace is a positive environment that encourages communication, responsibility, respect, and support.

Implementing a range of responses, tailored to the specific conditions, needs and resources of your workplace are more likely to have an impact and support the development of a safe workplace culture around drugs and alcohol.

A drug and alcohol-free workplace starts with a clear and accessible drug and alcohol policy. The tone of your policy and its extent will in large part define your workplace drug and alcohol program by outlining the expectations placed on employees, drug testing frequency and requirements, and the actions to be taken when a violation occurs.

Companies that have a strong, positive workplace culture often enjoy better workplace performance from staff, higher employee morale, better workforce retention levels, and a greater sense of community between coworkers. 
But how does all of this relate to alcohol and drug abuse in the workplace? It's all about putting an emphasis on employee health and wellness, and no organisation can expect to foster a positive culture free from drugs and alcohol without that emphasis. 
 
Want to learn more about drugs and alcohol in the workplace? Enroll in our specialised online course today.

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