Drug alcohol policy
There is no single strategy or policy that is appropriate for
businesses dealing with drug and alcohol misuse. Rather, a drug alcohol policy should be developed following an analysis of
the nature of business operations, an identification of
potential risks and a consideration of what is likely to
work given the culture of the business. What is likely to
be effective for a large manufacturing business might not
be appropriate for a small retail business.
A drug alcohol policy can adopt a variety
of innovative approaches, including:
• provision of leave to attend rehabilitation;
• the implementation of employee assistance
programmes;
• disciplinary, counselling and testing protocols; and
• zero tolerance policies in industries where employee or
public safety is at risk.
A drug alcohol policy will normally include:
• the imposition of behavioural standards, for example, that an employee attend
work in a fit and presentable state and not under the
influence of drugs and alcohol;
• guidelines for drug and alcohol testing in the
workplace; and
• disciplinary measures for misuse of drugs or alcohol.
While a relatively high proportion of larger businesses
have implemented strategies to manage drug and alcohol
misuse, it is not an issue in all businesses and there should
be no presumption that all businesses need to develop
highly formalised responses. However, to help you decide if you need a drug alcohol policy you may find it useful to consider some of the consequences of not having a policy?
● Confusion about rules
● Key staff not confident to deal with issues as they arise
● Litigation more likely if employee is dismissed
● Higher rate of absenteeism
● Possible financial loss – insurance payments, inaccuracies etc
Conclusion
Individual responsibility, supported by collective action
and common sense, provides the basis for balanced and
workable solutions. For workplaces where risk to the safety of employees, customers and the public is high, you should seek the services of an experienced consultancy to guide you through the drug alcohol policy development and implementation stages. Those workplaces where risk to the safety of employees, customers and the public are low, may consider using a template drug alcohol policy.
