Health & Safety Risk Management System

H01 - Alcohol & Drugs

Drug and alcohol misuse can be a serious problem not only for the misuser but also for the business where he/she works and, sometimes, for his/her co-workers. The possession of some drugs is illegal, exposing the misuser to the risk of criminal charges as well as causing harmful effects to his/her health. You could be breaking the law if you knowingly allow drug-related activities in your workplace and you fail to act. Social functions arranged by employers are also to be monitored for the presence, or misuse, of drugs.

It is highly recommended that responsible employers acquaint themselves with the signs of alcohol and drug misuse. The Alcohol and Drugs Procedure provides an overview of the possible indicators of drug and/or alcohol misuse. Although there may be an innocuous reason for an employee’s erratic behaviour or appearance, it is important to remember that all kinds of people are involved in drug (and alcohol) misuse — they do not conform to any stereotype. A lot of people who are involved in drug misuse are in work.

Employers should be aware of the legal implications of alcohol and drug misuse at work, both for their company and for their employees. The following is a list of relevant legislation:

• Misuse of Drugs Act 1971
• Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 (HSW Act)
• Road Traffic Act 1988
• Transport and Works Act 1992
• Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.

All organisations, large and small, can benefit from an agreed policy, applying to all staff, on drug and alcohol misuse. Such a policy should form part of your organisation’s overall health and safety policy. Many large organisations have policies that describe their position on drug misuse. A written drugs policy has many advantages, for example leaving less room for misunderstanding than an informal ‘understanding’.

Remember, it is good practice to have a policy even if you do not find any evidence of current drug misuse. A policy which is in place will enable you to deal with any future problems which may arise. Many employers have introduced specific policies to deal with potential problems of drug or alcohol misuse, not least because substance misusers can pose health and safety risks to themselves and others at work.