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Alcohol & Drug Abuse in the Work Place

According to the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), most drug users are employed. Further, 10 to 20 percent of workers who die at work test positive for alcohol or drugs. Paradoxically, the industries with the highest statistics of drug use are also at high risk for on-the-job injuries; they include construction, wholesale and manufacturing, and mining.

  1. Significance

    • According to the American Council for Drug Education, compared to employees who are not substance abusers, alcohol and drug abusers are 10 times more likely to be absent from work.

    Identification

    • An alcohol or drug abuser on the job may have many extensive and unexplained absences. She may exhibit physical signs of tiredness, dilated pupils, incoherent speech and unsteady walking.

    Prevention/Solution

    • OSHA recommends that employers implement a comprehensive drug-free workplace program, which includes a defined policy, drug testing, employee education, training for supervisors and employee assistance.

    Treatment

    • One of the main concerns of employee assistance programs (EAP) is substance abuse. It is designed to provide confidential help that makes it possible for employees to keep their jobs.

    Warning

    • Co-workers should not enable an alcohol or drug abuser's habit by lending him money or making excuses for him.

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