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This page contains frequently asked questions on alcohol and drugs.
There are a number of reasons why it may be appropriate to develop a workplace policy on alcohol and other drugs:
When having drinks or a celebratory meal with work colleagues, consider that:
If a person appears affected or impaired by alcohol or drugs, the employer has an obligation to make sure the person or any one else at the workplace is not put at risk.
If a policy exists for this situation, it should be followed. In the absence of a policy, the employer should determine the most appropriate course of action, which may include making arrangements for the person to get home safely.
It should not be assumed that any observed impairment is caused by alcohol and/or other drug use. Other impairment factors may include fatigue, medical conditions, chemicals, heat, noise and symptoms of work-related stress.
Impairment can be caused by a range of factors, including alcohol and other drug use. The focus at the workplace should be on occupational safety and health management rather than more general concerns about personal health.
Where the ability to work safely is impaired, the employer and workers should respond in a humane manner based on the information available.
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