Alcohol and drugs at work

Why is an alcohol and drug policy important?

Even though alcohol and drug use occur mainly (but not exclusively) outside working hours, the consequences in the workplace shouldn’t be underestimated:

• reduced productivity

• inappropriate behaviour and conflicts with colleagues

• absenteeism

• a higher risk of mistakes

• work accidents

• damage to the company’s image

• …

As an employer, you naturally strive to ensure that everyone can work in a safe, healthy and productive environment. However, when alcohol or drug use begins to affect employee wellbeing, it introduces complex challenges. How do you protect the safety of your team? How can you maintain productivity levels? And also, how do you offer support without stigmatising?

However, a written policy alone is not enough. True effectiveness lies in building a culture of support - through training, prevention, open communication, and timely intervention.

A well-designed policy not only equips managers with clear guidance in the event of an incident but also makes it easier for employees to access the help they need.

Don’t know where to start? Mensura can support you in identifying workplace risks, raising awareness among employees, and evaluating your policy on a regular basis.

The four pillars of an effective alcohol and drug policy

1. Rules

Alcohol and drugs in your workplace: what is and isn’t allowed? It’s essential to establish clear guidelines regarding the use of alcohol and drugs in the workplace - including the potential risks associated with certain medications. Set straightforward rules and communicate them clearly to your employees. This will make your policy concrete and transparent.

2. Procedures

Despite preventive measures, situations may still arise where an employee is visibly intoxicated at work or shows signs of a possible dependency issue. With clear procedures and a concrete step-by-step plan, you can provide guidance to employees and managers.

3. Assistance

Employees struggling with problematic alcohol or drug use deserve support and the opportunity to recover, rather than being met with stigma. By guiding them toward appropriate professional help, you contribute to their wellbeing while fostering a more compassionate and responsible workplace culture. The first points of contact are the occupational physician, the person of trust or the psychosocial risk prevention advisor.

4. Education

Prevention is better than the cure. Regularly inform your employees about the consequences and risks of alcohol and drug use. Also, ensure they are familiar with the rules and procedures within your organisation. Additionally, with our special training course, your managers can learn not only how to apply these procedures effectively, but also how to engage in difficult—yet essential—conversations with empathy and confidence.

What can Mensura do for you?

• Develop a concrete and practical alcohol and drug policy for your organisation

• Organise training courses for your managers and persons of trust

• Create a roadmap for support programs, reintegration and follow-up

• Carry out an assessment of alcohol and drug use in your organisation

• Train you to spot the signs of problematic use

• Help you to prevent the psychosocial problems caused by alcohol or drug use