One of the concerns with health and safety at work is alcohol and drug abuse. The effects of such abuse can be seen in many different parties, not just the abuser. It can lead to health problems, time off work and reduced activity and productivity.

With the NEBOSH Working with Wellbeing course you can learn techniques on how to avoid problems with substance abuse within your organisation.

Drugs at Work and the Law

There are two pieces of legislation that relate to drugs in the workplace. These are:

  • Health and Safety Act Work Act Section 2
  • Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999

It is also an offence to allow or permit any person to produce, supply or use drugs on your premises under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. Furthermore the Road Traffic Act 1988 states that anyone in control of vehicles must not be under the influence of drugs as well as the Transport and Works Act 1992. If you operate a business with drivers it is important to make sure no unfit drivers are allowed to have control of any vehicle.

Create a Solid Policy and Share it With Your Employees

The use of drugs can cost you money due to time off work and a reduced level of productivity in the workplace. It can also increase the risk of accidents, leaving you and others at risk. Therefore it is important to introduce a substance misuse policy. As an employer it is more beneficial to provide help and support to anyone found using drugs rather than punishing them directly. However in your policy you should make it clear that the police will be contacted if drugs are found. Your policy should also make it clear that if an employee comes and admits they have a problem it is better to provide them with help rather than firing them.

You can find out more about the misuse of drugs and alcohol on the course from NEBOSH. To book you or your human resource team, supervisors or managers on the NEBOSH Working with Wellbeing course simply contact us on 0808 1966 830.

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