Why You Need a Policy

The misuse of drugs and alcohol are growing problems in today's pleasure-seeking society, all kinds of people are involved in drug/alcohol misuse, they do not conform to any stereotype.

These problems can lead to absenteeism, increased levels of illness, lateness amongst employees and contractors alike, poor work performance and therefore lower productivity.

Alcohol, not often thought of as a drug, can present serious health and safety risks. Similarly, illegal drugs are now being taken in alarming proportions, so much so, that today it is a common social pastime amongst the younger generation.

Drug and alcohol misuse harms individuals both mentally and physically. Arguably, however, the most serious consequences to any business are the dangers posed to the safety of all employees.

A regular drug user or alcohol misuser is:

• 3.6 times more likely to be involved in an accident at work
• 3 times more likely to have sick leave
• 5 times more likely to claim compensation
• 33% less productive
• 10 times more likely to be late

Today, many businesses are introducing welfare based substance misuse polices as part of ongoing health and safety iniatives to safeguard against these problems.

This provides employees with access to information and assistance should they have issues, along with arming managers with the tools to confidently apply the policy fairly and consistently.

See Policy Considerations and Legal Obligations sections for more information.