Drug abuse can have a devastating effect on employees and employers. It can lead to decreased productivity, increased absences, and even workplace accidents. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips for avoiding drug abuse in the workplace. We will provide advice for employers and employees alike, so that everyone can work together to keep their workplace safe and drug-free!
Drug abuse affect on the workplace
Drug abuse can have a devastating effect on more than just the user. It can cause decreased productivity, increased absences and even workplace accidents. An injury that happens while a worker is under the influence of drugs is not automatically excluded from workers’ compensation, but WorkCover will look at whether the work was a significant contributing factor, an injury caused by a worker’s serious and wilful misconduct is only compensable in limited cases, and intoxication can reduce damages in a common law claim. employers and employees alike can work together to keep their workplace safe and drug-free!
Create a workplace drug and alcohol policy
The first step that employers can take is to create a drug-free workplace policy. This policy should be clear and concise, and it should outline the consequences for employees who are found to be using drugs and specify whether drug testing will be a condition of employment. Employees must be aware of this policy so that they know what is expected of them.
Do employees have to tell managers what medications they are on?
When it comes to prescription medications, employees must inform their manager if the medication has the potential to adversely affect performance or if safety is an issue. They are not required to explain the nature of any medical condition or the reason they are on a particular medication.
What to do if a coworker is abusing drugs
If you or someone you know is struggling with drug abuse, there are many QLD Health resources available to help:
Alcohol and Drug Information Service (ADIS)—1800 177 833
The Alcohol and Drug Information Service (Adis) provides a free, 24 hour/7 day counselling, information and referral service for anyone with concerns about their own or someone else’s use of alcohol or other drugs. This is an anonymous and confidential service.
Counseling online
Counselling online is a free, 24 hour, 7 day online service where you can communicate live and one-on-one with a professional counsellor about any alcohol or drug related concern.
Lifeline
Lifeline provides a support and suicide prevention service. Call 13 11 14, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
With the right resources and support, we can all work together to create a safe and drug-free workplace!
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