As part of June’s Hazard of the Month, Substance Misuse, we’re highlighting two key areas: Drugs and Alcohol at Work & Healthy Living Awareness.
Drugs and Alcohol at Work
Employers have a legal duty to protect the health, safety, and welfare of their employees.
Being able to identify the signs of drug and alcohol misuse is important for maintaining a safe workplace, developing policies to manage substance-related concerns, and ensuring employees have access to appropriate support.
Substance misuse can involve the use of illegal drugs, as well as the inappropriate use of alcohol, prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines, or substances such as solvents.
Common indicators of possible substance misuse may include:
- Frequent or unexplained absences
- Noticeable changes in behaviour or mood
- Reduced productivity without a clear explanation
- An increase in accidents, incidents, or near-misses
- Performance, conduct, or attendance issues
When assessing and managing the risks associated with substance misuse, employers should consider the specific nature of the work being carried out, particularly any safety-critical activities where impairment could have serious consequences, such as:
- Operating machinery
- Using electrical equipment or working at height
- Driving vehicles or operating lifting equipment
This information should be used to support workplace risk assessments and help determine appropriate control measures.
Where employees in safety-critical roles come forward to seek support for substance misuse, it may be appropriate to temporarily transfer them to alternative duties while they receive assistance.
Learn more about handling substance misuse with our Drugs and Alcohol at Work Online Training Course. Get 10% off this course with the code ‘misuse10’!
Healthy Living Awareness
The number of alcohol units in a drink varies depending on its volume and strength. Regularly consuming more than 14 units of alcohol per week can increase the risk of health problems.
Research has shown that ongoing alcohol consumption is linked to a range of health conditions, including several types of cancer, highlighting the importance of drinking within recommended guidelines.
Reducing your alcohol intake can provide both immediate and long-term health benefits.
Short-term benefits may include:
- Waking up feeling more refreshed
- Reduced daytime fatigue
- Healthier-looking skin
- Increased energy levels
- Better weight management
Long-term benefits may include:
- Improved mood and emotional wellbeing
- Better quality sleep
- Enhanced concentration, judgement, and memory
- Reduced irritability
- Improved heart health
- A stronger immune system
Practical ways to reduce your alcohol consumption:
- Set a limit before you start drinking
- Create a budget for alcohol spending
- Tell friends and family about your goals
- Gradually reduce the amount you drink over time
- Choose smaller serving sizes
- Opt for lower-alcohol alternatives
- Drink water regularly to stay hydrated and pace your alcohol intake
Learn more about improving your health and lifestyle with our Healthy Living Awareness Online Training Course. Get 10% off this course with the code ‘misuse10’!
Drugs and Alcohol at Work & Healthy Living Awareness courses are essential tools in protecting and improving the health of your workforce.
Make sure you don’t miss out on our 10% off deal on these courses, available until the end of June. Simply enter the code ‘misuse10’ at checkout to save!
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