Product category:
Building Industry Health and Safety
News Release from: Nationwide Healthcare Connections | Subject: Drug and alcohol misuse
Edited by the Buildingtalk Editorial
Team on 14 September 2005
Keeping employees safe from drugs and
alcohol
Misuse of substances can have a significant impact on individuals and organisations and is of growing concern in the UK.
Drug and alcohol misuse, both in society generally and in the workplace in particular is an issue that should not be underestimated The misuse of substances can have a significant impact on individuals and organisations and is of growing concern in the UK today
This article was originally published on Buildingtalk on 14 Sep 2005 at 8.00am (UK)
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What is the purpose of having a drug and alcohol policy?.
The overall aim is to have a safe and healthy workforce which protects and promotes health and safety and thereby sustain health, enhance productivity and strengthen business performance.
The objectives are threefold:.
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* to prevent drug and alcohol problems affecting the workplace through awareness raising.
* to identify problems at the earliest stage.
* to protect the health, safety and welfare of employees by offering support to those who have a problem.
The policy can extend to alcohol, illicit drugs and over the counter or prescription medication which may be abused.
We believe over the counter and prescribed medication should also be included as certain types can be mind altering and thereby affect performance and create a safety risk.
The policy should therefore clearly state what employees are expected to do if they start taking medicines which have the potential to affect work performance ie reporting to supervisors/line managers.
Central to the policy development is always employee participation and commitment from above.
Why we believe policy implementation is imperative.
Given the current pattern of drinking and the accessibility, the relatively low cost of illegal drugs and the problems relating to their use in the workplace it is imperative that organisations have a robust policy in place before screening any employees.
Employers who have implemented a policy are well placed to deal with such problems.
What are the benefits?.
An effectively implemented policy will ensure:.
* a clear understanding within the workplace of the rules relating to drugs and alcohol.
* a greater awareness in the workplace of the effects of drugs and alcohol and consequently early recognition.
* that the necessary structures and procedures are in place should a problem arise.
* a willingness amongst employees to acknowledge that they or fellow colleagues have a problem.
HCC has set itself apart from other operators through its reliable, flexible and efficient service and is recognised as a quality driven company.
This has resulted in many high profile companies being added to its portfolio.
HCC is instrumental in supporting major companies through both screening and medical services and has the specialist experience in drug and alcohol screening and also fully recognises the key elements when supporting a company's needs.
HCC creates a tailor-made service to fit our client's needs and requirements rather than just dictating a package for them to use.
This ensures that the client receives the bespoke policy they are demanding in today's society.
With drug and alcohol abuse and misuse on the increase can companies afford not to follow suit?.
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