Alcohol and Drugs in the Workplace: An Easter Weekend Reminder
- Rock and Road
- 7 days ago
- 3 min read
As we approach the Easter bank holiday, many will enjoy a well-earned break and time with family and friends. But while long weekends are a chance to relax, they can also bring a rise in alcohol consumption and, in some cases, substance misuse.
For employers, especially in high-risk industries, it’s a key time to remind teams about the importance of safety, responsibility, and support.
Why This Matters After a Holiday
Returning to work after a holiday weekend can be difficult, especially if alcohol or substances have been used more heavily than usual. Fatigue, poor concentration, or worse, working under the influence, can pose real dangers in safety-critical environments. It's not about policing your team’s time off; it's about protecting everyone once they’re back on site.
Legal Responsibilities
Employers Duties
Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, employers have a duty to ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety, and welfare of their employees. If an employer knowingly allows an employee under the influence of alcohol or drugs to work and this endangers others, they could be held liable.
The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 further require employers to assess risks to health and safety. This includes identifying and addressing potential risks from alcohol and drug misuse in the workplace.
In specific industries, such as transport, stricter regulations apply. For instance:
The Transport and Works Act 1992 makes it a criminal offense for certain workers to be unfit due to alcohol or drugs while operating transport systems. Employers must exercise due diligence to prevent such offenses.
The Road Traffic Act 1991 criminalises driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, emphasizing the responsibility of both employers and employees in ensuring safe transport practices.
Employees’ Duties
Employees also have a duty to take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others. This includes:
Adhering to their organisation’s Alcohol and Drugs Policy.
Reporting concerns about their own or others’ substance misuse.
Avoiding actions that could endanger colleagues or themselves.
The Benefits of Early Intervention
Addressing alcohol and drug problems early can lead to better outcomes for both employees and employers:
Cost Savings: Supporting an employee through recovery is often less expensive than recruiting and training a replacement.
Improved Outcomes: Employees who receive help early are more likely to recover and continue contributing positively to the workplace.
Consistent Handling: A clear Alcohol and Drugs Policy ensures problems are managed efficiently and fairly, encouraging employees to seek help rather than hiding issues.
Recognising the Signs of AlcOhol Addiction
Addiction can manifest in various ways, including:
Physiological: Fatigue, memory issues, poor concentration.
Behavioural: Declining performance, secrecy, social withdrawal.
Physical: Neglected personal care, sleep disturbances.
Understanding these signs can help employers and colleagues identify problems early and provide necessary support.
Seeking Support
For employees:
Don’t ignore the problem. Early action increases the chances of successful treatment.
Speak confidentially with a manager or HR representative.
Explore available treatment options, such as those provided by your GP or occupational health services.
For employers:
Develop and communicate a clear Alcohol and Drugs Policy.
Provide training for managers to recognise and address substance misuse issues.
Encourage a supportive culture where employees feel safe seeking help.
Resources for Help
Several organisations offer guidance and support:
How We Can Help
At Rock and Road Training, we specialise in health and safety training tailored to the unique challenges of quarry environments. If you’d like to discuss implementing an Alcohol and Drugs Policy or enhancing your workplace’s safety practices, get in touch with us today.
Have specific questions? Leave a comment below, we’re here to help.
Together, we can create safer workplaces and stronger businesses.
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