ADOPTING A WORKPLACE POLICY

What is a workplace Drug & Alcohol Policy?

The best way to respond to the issue of substance misuse at work is to implement a workplace policy on drugs and alcohol. The workplace drug and alcohol policy states how an organisation aims to prevent substance misuse problems in the workplace, and, if they occur, how that organisation will treat an employee with a drug or alcohol problem.

A workplace Drug & Alcohol policy should:

• Outline the company's rules and procedures for dealing with substance misuse
• Give clear definitions of employee and employer responsibilities
• Aim to support affected employees rather than punish them
• Seek to help employees who admit to having a drug or alcohol - related problem, and encourage them to seek treatment, rather than lead to their dismissal
• Provide assistance and support to employees with problems, with the aim of integrating them back into the workplace

Why a workplace policy makes good business sense

Principally, a workplace policy helps employers fulfil their legal duty of care, to safeguard the health, safety and welfare of employees under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. If an employer knowingly allows an employee under the influence of excess drugs or alcohol to continue working, and this places the employee or others at risk, they could be prosecuted. Similarly, employees are required to take reasonable care of themselves and others who could be affected by what they do.

Through undergoing the training that supports the adoption of a good workplace policy, staff and managers are better able to spot the signs and symptoms of drug or alcohol misuse and better placed to manage the situation. Early identification can help resolve the underlying cause of the problem at an earlier stage and help alleviate problematic use of substances later on.