Responding to alcohol and other drug issues in the workplace: useful information

Alcohol- and other drug-related harm in the workplace is costly both in economic and human terms. Therefore, it makes good sense for employers and employees to address this issue. While some workplaces have developed responses to alcohol- and other drug-related harm in the workplace, the majority of workplaces do not have formal policies or constructive responses. One of the reasons for this is that there has been little quality information available that provides practical assistance.This Package aims to provide employers and employees with quality ‘best practice’ information that can inform and guide the development and implementation of an effective response to alcohol- and other drug-related harm in the workplace.The information contained in this Package encourages a ‘whole of workplace’ health and safety approach that includes the prevention and treatment of alcohol- and other drug-related harm in the workplace.The aim of a good workplace response is to develop a workplace culture where employees are prepared to encourage each other to be safe and not impaired at work. Employees should be aware of the need to refer incidents that are likely to adversely affect workplace safety or productivity to their supervisor and/or occupational health and safety representative.