The misuse of drugs and alcohol is a national problem of immense proportions. The social, psychological, emotional and physical consequences affect the lives of men and women regardless of age or status, ethnic origins, sexuality or disability. Most people with a substance abuse problem are employed. Substance abuse is therefore also an industrial problem. The abuse of drugs and alcohol has serious consequences in the workplace on health, safety, staff relationships and productivity.

Drugs and alcohol abuse has a negative effect on the workplace due to absenteeism, increased use of medical benefits, worker’s compensation claims, poor productivity, high job turnover, interpersonal conflict, injuries and damage to property. The seminar enforces recognizes the need for effective and consistent action, while striking a proper balance between work, privacy, and concern for the individual.

• The objective of this Seminar is to identify and remove the adverse effects of alcohol on job performance, and to protect the health and safety of our employees by providing education and treatment.
• To define corporate responses to violations of substance abuse, including progressive discipline procedures and a treatment option in some instances.
• To define employer and employee responsibilities regarding prevention of substance abuse problems.
• By defining standards of behaviour and by providing educational programs to create an awareness of alcohol-related problems and attempts to prepare individuals to act responsibly.
• To address the non-workplace and non-visible situations concerning trauma and the ability to continue working effectively.

The aim of this Substance Abuse Seminar program is:

• to promote the sensible and appropriate use of alcohol among employees, as it relates to the workplace.
• to encourage and assist employees who suspect or know that they have a problem with alcohol / trauma and abuse issues to seek help, in confidence, at an early stage.
• to encourage senior staff and supervisors to offer referral to an appropriate agency for specialist help to those members of staff who request support, or whose work performance may be affected by the inappropriate use of alcohol;
• to protect employees and the public from the potential adverse effects of inappropriate use of alcohol.
• to provide mechanisms for the early detection and treatment of persons who may have a substance abuse problem (Over the counter drugs included)
• procedures for defining the role and responsibilities of management when dealing with substance abuse at work.
• Using the Incapacity process as defined in Schedule 8 of the Labour Relations Act
• The workplace effects of domestic violence on an employee.