It is increasingly apparent that the harmful effects of alcohol and other drug use extend to the workplace. The vast majority of Australians who use alcohol and other drugs, either occasionally or regularly, are employed. Alcohol and other drug use can not only influence the health, safety and well-being of individual workers, but also the productivity, safety and well-being of the workplace in general.
In recognition of the potential negative impact that alcohol and other drug use can have in the workplace, governments, employers and unions are increasing their efforts to ensure the health and safety of workers and the productivity and safety of workplaces. However, much of this effort is hampered by the lack of good quality, practical and readily available information and resources concerning the workplace and alcohol and other drug use.
To help overcome this, NCETA has produced several Workplace Resources that are designed to assist workplaces respond to alcohol and other drug-related harm. An occupational health and safety approach is adopted that incorporates both the prevention and treatment of alcohol and other drug issues in the workplace.
It is important to remember that alcohol- and other drug-related harm in the workplace is a complex issue and there is no ‘one size fits all’ response. Any response should always be tailored to suit the specific needs of individual workplaces. In recognition of this, NCETA also offers expert advice on a consultancy basis to individual workplaces on a range of work-related drug and alcohol issues.
