Alcohol Abuse In The Workplace And The Effects

Drug and alcohol abuse in the workplace is more common then what most people would believe. Over half of drug and alcohol users have taken part in drug or alcohol consumption at their work site.

Almost half of work related accidents involve substance abuse. While this causes daily frustration for managers and fellow employees, low productivity and damages cause money losses. Mistakes and inappropriate behaviors put employees and customers in danger.

Drug and alcohol abuse in the workplace manifests in many ways:

• Decreases the quality and/or speed of work.
• Constant absences and/or tardiness (especially right before a weekend or holiday break and right after payday): Researchers find that drugs cause over sixty percent of work absences.
• Often leaving work early
• Lengthening breaks
• Talking more on the phone
• Stealing company supplies and/or profits

As an employer you may detect job performance issues which are a clear sign that drug and alcohol abuse in the workplace could be having a negative effect on your business.  It is vital that action follows even the slightest amount of suspicion. Helping a substance abuser will not only help the addict, but also the others that love and work with him/her.

With most substance addictions there are easy to identify warning signs (e.g., most alcohol can be smelled on the breath; constant sniffling may indicate a cocaine user, puncture scars inside the elbows can suggest syringe use for heroin abuse, etc.). Here is a list of the common indicators:

• Red or dilated eyes
• Slurred speech
• Cold or sweaty hands
• Difficulties concentrating
• Moody, impatient, dangerous, and/or violent behavior
• Moody, impatient, dangerous, and/or violent behavior
• Extreme periods of energy (e.g., constant talking) and/or fatigue
• Paranoia
• Sudden or decreasing disregard in personal appearance or hygiene
• Sudden change in friends
• Dishonesty
• Depression

Professional help is needed to deal with drug and alcohol abuse in the workplace.  Business and company owners play a crucial role in the detection and recovery of substance abuse/addiction problems. Due to the variety of occupations, most drug addicts encounter at least one, if not more, co-workers who are struggling with addiction on a consistent basis.  Once you have identified the warning signs,  patience, compassion, and support will guide those who are addicted to resources of assistance.   As a business or company owner it is advisable to have a listing of resource for quick reference.  You can find directories for substance abuse recovery through Google or on our blog by clicking here.

alcohol abuse in the workplace

alcohol abuse in the workplace

alcohol abuse in the workplace