The impact of work on alcohol and drug use

PCS says that individuals turn to drugs and/or alcohol for many reasons, but that: “It is well recognised that excess pressures (or stress) can cause an increase in alcohol use and may also lead to the use of drugs”. Employers should therefore look at helping individuals overcome not only their addiction, but also the underlying factors causing it.

“Jobs which mean working away from the family in relative isolation can lead to an increased reliance on alcohol and some workers working long shifts or doing two jobs have to rely on illegal stimulants e.g. amphetamines to get through the day or night,” says the GMB. “It is vital that any workplace action on drugs and alcohol also addresses these factors.”

UNISON advises its reps to ask the employer to look at the workload of anyone suspected of misusing alcohol, drugs or other substances and review the risk assessment if necessary. The advice to UCU reps is: “When cases are brought to the employer’s attention, ensure there is an investigation to determine whether or not the employee’s problem is a response to any condition in the workplace likely to damage their health (for example, stress or bullying), and if so initiate a review of the risk assessment.”