Drugs and Alcohol - The Facts         Levels of drug use in this country are now so high, and across the whole spectrum of the population, that drugs can affect any workplace, no matter how large or small.

Drug and alcohol misuse costs UK industry approximately £800 million per year and is a major issue for all employers. The impact of drug misuse on companies is immense and includes theft, impaired performance, accidents, absenteeism, sickness absence, and reduced efficiency. It can also adversely affect company image.

The US National Institute for Drug Abuse Research has shown employees on drugs are:
-   only two-thirds as productive
-   2-3 times more likely to be absent for 8 days or more
-   nearly 4 times more likely to be involved in an accident in the workplace
-   more likely to make claims against their employers and insurers

The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development has reported that 10% of a typical workforce has a drug or alcohol problem.

1 in 25 people, the majority of whom are employed, have a problem with alcohol dependency. 40% of the workforce under 40 years of age (and 45% of those aged between 16 and 29) have experimented with illicit drugs, and 25% of those seeking help for drug problems are in employment (statistics published by Alcohol Concern).

These costs mean that organisations cannot afford to overlook the welfare, health and safety of their employees. Neither can they ignore their legal responsibilities under The Health and Safety at Work Act, The Misuse of Drugs Act, and other legislation.

What can employers do to tackle the problem?
 -   Introduce a drugs and alcohol misuse policy. An employer’s case is much stronger if a clear policy exists which sets out the stance of the employer and makes clear to employees the potential consequences of drug or alcohol misuse as far as it relates to their employment                                                           -  Provide comprehensive drug and alcohol awareness training for managers and employees

DATAC Services offers a wide range of cost effective training and consultancy services, including drug and alcohol awareness training courses for managers and employees, and drug and alcohol policy development. For companies wishing to implement a drugs and alcohol policy, or wishing to review or update an existing policy, DATAC Services can carry out the majority of the hard work for you, leaving you free to continue the day-to-day management of your organisation.