Do you need a alcohol and drugs misuse policy?

Having a policy is key for some employers where they need to comply with regulations or industry standards and of course for workplace safety. 

There are benefits of implementing a policy such as:

1. Enhanced Safety: Reduces the risk of accidents and injuries caused by impaired judgment and coordination.
2. Improved Productivity: Helps ensure that employees are performing at their best, without the negative impacts of substance use.
3. Compliance with Regulations: Ensures the Company adheres to legal requirements and industry standards related to workplace safety.
4. Workplace Culture: Fosters a culture of responsibility, trust, and mutual respect, along with promoting a healthier work environment, and reducing associated accidents and lost productivity.

A policy should cover the company’s stance on alcohol and drugs, how they deal with alcohol and drug related issues in the workplace, and the approach to issues such as prescription medication. 

Do we need to carry out an impact assessment for an alcohol and drugs policy

Overall, an impact assessment provides a comprehensive understanding of how the policy will function in practice and helps to refine and improve its implementation for maximum effectiveness.

Conducting an impact assessment for an alcohol and drugs policy is good practice. This will help to understand the potential effects of the policy on the company, employees, and overall workplace environment.

Do you also need to include random testing or testing when you suspect someone has attended the workplace while under the influence of alcohol or drugs in an alcohol and drugs policy?

Random alcohol and drug testing can be a crucial for maintaining a safe, productive, and compliant workplace.

Here’s why companies might choose to implement such testing:

1. Deterrence: The knowledge that testing can occur at any time discourages employees from engaging in substance abuse.
2. Safety: Random testing helps identify employees who might be under the influence of drugs or alcohol while on the job, thus preventing potential accidents and injuries, especially in safety-sensitive roles.
3. Compliance: Certain industries, like transportation and aviation, are required by law to conduct random testing to comply with regulations. This ensures that the company adheres to regulations or industry standards.
4. Early Intervention: Identifying substance abuse issues early allows companies to offer support and resources to employees who need help, potentially before their substance use becomes a more significant problem.
5. Insurance Costs: Maintaining a drug-free workplace can lead to lower insurance premiums and reduced liability risks, which can be financially beneficial for the company.
6. Productivity and Performance: Ensuring that employees are not impaired while at work helps maintain high productivity and performance levels, reducing absenteeism and workplace errors.

Always check in with a HR professional before implementing a new policy to ensure the policy is fit for purpose and doesn’t expose the company to any risks.