Blog Image
Profile Image Verifile
May 26 2016

Is it Time to Review Your Drug & Alcohol Policy?

With national data showing alcohol and other drugs drain up to $6 million dollars from Australian workplaces each year due to lost productivity, many employers are reviewing their workplace drug and alcohol policies. Simon Clayer, Senior Associate with HopgoodGanim says employers who don 't step up to prevent drug and alcohol impaired employees from endangering other staff may be liable for the actions of those employees. Clayer recommends any employer considering drafting a drug and alcohol in the workplace policy consider the following guidelines: Develop the policy in consultation with all stakeholders in the workplace such as unions, workers, and health and safety representatives, Apply the policy equally to all workers across all levels of the business, Clearly state what is acceptable behaviour and the consequences of any unacceptable behaviour, If the policy includes testing, describe the testing protocols and procedures, and Ensure the policy is clearly communicated to all members of the workforce.