How to implement a drug and alcohol policy

Drugs and alcohol in the workplace can be an especially delicate topic. Problems in this are department can have an adverse impact on business. Strategies are available for employers to implement and can be required by law. Different policies include:

• Written
• Employee assistance programs
• Drug testing

Drug and alcohol abusers among employees account for increased absenteeism, more on-the-job injuries to themselves or others, and lower productivity. This means higher costs for businesses through:

• Sick leave
• Overtime pay
• Insurance claims
• Being late
• Workers' compensation
• Friction among workers
• Damage to equipment
• Bad decisions
• Negative impact to the business's public image
• Employee turnover

Statistics suggest that this can cost approximately 6 billion dollars annually. Businesses may choose to adopt a policy for these reasons. Even if you do not want to adopt an all-out drug and alcohol abuse program, you may want to implement strategies you feel can be effective in fighting substance abuse in your work place.

When developing a drug and alcohol policy in your work place it is important to:

• Establish a representative group to formulate and implement the policy

The group established to manage the development of the policy should include workers’
representatives, safety and health representatives and management representatives.

• Develop the policy through consultation with all workers

The policy should be developed using the input an involvement of all workers and consultation with employee and employer organisations. Effective communication strategies that ensure regular consultation and feedback to workers should be adopted. This gives workers a sense of participation and ownership of the policy, making it more likely to succeed.

• Ensure there is clear communication and provision of information throughout the development stage

To ensure a successful policy it may be necessary to reassure the workers and overcome any anxiety they may be feeling about it.

Employers should let the workers know that the business values them and is committed to responsibly responding to the issue of alcohol and other drugs and ensuring safety in the workplace.
When implementing a drug and alcohol policy in your workplace it is important to consult with unions and health and safety representatives. It is also important to educate staff on the health effects of drugs and alcohol.

Train your leaders and advise your workers of the policy. Take care to make sure that the policy is the same for every worker and be consistent.

To keep the policy forefront remind staff before work social events.

You are entitled to require employee cooperation in the implementation of a drug and alcohol policy.