Studies have shown that the abuse of alcohol and drugs in the workplace can cost Canadian workplaces billions of dollars in lost productivity, injuries, absenteeism, medical costs and liability. One way to address this issue is to adopt a clear and comprehensive Alcohol and Drug Workplace Policy. The goal of a well-written policy should provide access to current and accurate information. This would include substance abuse and all of its effects, methods that outline early detection protocols, and a process to support affected employees and their families to seek out treatment options that meet their specific needs.

The Benefits of an Alcohol and Drug Workplace Policy:

• Employees and management will have a clear understanding of how the organization deals with substance use in the workplace
  
  
• Can guide managers and fellow employees on how to deal with an individual with a substance use problem
  
  
• Improve workplace health and safety
  
  
• Can assist and support employees and/or their families with a substance abuse problem
  
  
• Reduce liability
  
  
• Reduce workplace injuries related to substance abuse
  
  
• Demonstrates a supportive and healthy workplace to its employees

Helpful Websites:

• APOLNET: Alcohol Policy Network
  
  
• National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism