Drugs and alcohol in the workplace

Allowing drugs or alcohol in the workplace is unsafe, unhealthy and can create chaos and trouble for your company. Substance abuse can affect an employee’s productivity level, their personal health, as well as their relationship with others in the workplace. Companies should have a no tolerance policy when it comes to drugs or alcohol in the workplace.

Include a drug and alcohol policy in your employee handbook. Make sure all your employees are aware of your drug and alcohol policy at work. Your employee handbook should thoroughly discuss the consequences of employees who are found under the influence of either drugs or alcohol during working hours. By having a comprehensive policy clearly outlined in your employee handbook, employees can’t argue with management if they disregard these rules.

Try to encourage those employees with such problems or addictions to come forward and help them through an EAP program (Employee Assistance Program). If your employee is having difficulty controlling their substance abuse, it’s important to offer them the proper resources for them to get help. This not only shows that you care about your employees’ wellbeing but it also helps to make sure they stay productive and motivated while at work.

Require employees with such problems to take time off to recover. Provide them with a “Last Chance Agreement” to help them get back on their feet. Recovering from substance abuse may be challenging; but providing your employees with time off to deal with these personal issues can aid in their progress towards recovery. With a last chance agreement, you provide your employee one last opportunity to get well, and keep their job. This agreement alone may motivate your employee to seek help and become healthy.

Make sure your policies are in place; that your employee handbook is updated and that you have a “plan” for those employees in need of assistance. We work with many EAP’s (Employee Assistance Programs) and can refer those to you. Further, we can help you draft a comprehensive drug and alcohol policy for your company. A comprehensive drug and alcohol policy will define the rules and consequences of employees who are found under the influence while at work.