Alcohol and Other Drugs
Research has linked alcohol and other drugs to a variety of problems in the workplace: absenteeism, poor decision-making, unsafe work practices, decreased productivity and conflicts among employees. It is estimated that productivity losses in Canada due to alcohol misuse are approximately $7.1 billion every year.1
Alcohol in the workplace is a liability issue. Employers need to take action if there are concerns about an employee. Liability is also a concern if there are workplace events where alcohol may be served (e.g. holiday parties). The development of an alcohol policy can address these issues. A policy is beneficial because it demonstrates risk management, provides guidance to employees and managers, establishes good workplace relations, and protects employers from possible lawsuits.
The Alcohol in the Workplace Tool Kit provides information and tools to assist in improving employee health and wellness. Information is provided on how to:
- help raise awareness about the risks associated with alcohol use,
- enhance the skills of supervisors and employees in dealing with concerns about alcohol use,
- create a supportive environment, and
- develop a workplace policy on alcohol use.
If you would like to access this full PDF resource, please contact KFL&A Public Health Workplace Wellness.
Alcohol in the workplace resources:
- Problematic Substance Use That Impacts the Workplace
- Keeping Good Company: An Employer's Guide to Understanding and Avoiding Alcohol Liability
- When an Employee has a Substance Related Problem
References:
- Rehm J, Baliunas S, Brochu S, Fischer B, Gnam W, Patra J, Popova S, Sarnocinska-Hart A, Taylor B. The costs of substance abuse in Canada 2002. Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse [document on the Internet]. Ottawa: March 2006 [cited December 18, 2014]. Available from: http://www.google.ca/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CC0QFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ccsa.ca%2FResource%2520Library%2Fccsa-011332-2006.pdf&ei=dojCVMLjH8SjyAT42IHIBw&usg=AFQjCNF1sB9J968zYXiWPkAYbisPitiIHA&sig2=jKle4RaJ8_NlwaRGxmnSPQ&bvm=bv