Safety – and drug and alcohol abuse at work – is everyone’s responsibility

A safe and productive workplace doesn’t just happen by itself. It requires everyone, from senior management to frontline employees, to play their part in maintaining safety standards and preventing risks.

One fundamental aspect of workplace health and safety is ensuring that the environment remains free from the influence of drugs and alcohol. While employers may implement policies and procedures, it’s up to each worker to take responsibility for their actions and contribute to a safe and healthy workplace. In fact, it’s not just a moral duty. It’s also a legal responsibility.

Drug and alcohol management starts at the top

Ensuring a workplace is free from the influence of drugs and alcohol requires a proactive, multi-faceted approach that begins at the top and then permeates through every level of the organisation.

While setting an example by not coming to work under the influence is crucial for owners and managers of a business, there’s much more that needs to be done to create a safe and compliant workplace.

• Business owners and management must first establish a comprehensive drug and alcohol policy and procedures that clearly outline acceptable behaviour, the consequences of non-compliance and the company’s stance on substance use. This policy and procedures should align with workplace safety regulations and industry standards, ensuring that both legal and ethical obligations are met.
• Education and awareness are vital. It’s essential to inform employees about the dangers of substance use at work, its impact on safety and productivity and the resources available for those struggling with addiction. Offering regular training and open discussions can help remove the stigma around substance issues and empower employees to seek help or speak up if they notice risky behaviours.
• Employers should also provide support systems for employees with drug or alcohol issues. This could include access to counselling, employee assistance programs or external support services. A supportive environment encourages individuals to seek help before issues escalate, fostering a healthier and more productive workforce.
• Lastly, in industries where safety is paramount—such as construction, manufacturing or transport—drug and alcohol testing plays a critical role. Regular testing helps ensure that employees are fit for duty, reducing the risk of accidents, injuries and errors caused by impairment.

Employee responsibilities around drugs and alcohol

While management and owners are responsible for setting the tone, employees play a crucial role in ensuring their workplace remains free from the influence of drugs and alcohol. After all, employees have a vested interest in maintaining a safe environment—it's usually their safety on the line if something goes wrong.

• Under state and territory Acts, employees are legally obligated to avoid recklessly endangering others in the workplace. Arriving at work under the influence of drugs or alcohol can lead to severe repercussions, including prosecution under the Act. It’s not just about breaking rules; it’s about potentially putting everyone in harm's way.
• Being under the influence while working doesn’t just endanger your colleagues—it puts your own safety at significant risk. If you have dependents, like a partner or children, your personal wellbeing matters even more. Staying safe at work is vital for the well-being of those who rely on you.
• Working under the influence poses a huge threat to coworkers. Injuring—or, in the worst-case scenario, causing the death of—a colleague due to being impaired is not just a legal issue but a deeply personal one. Imagine the lifelong guilt and emotional toll of causing harm to someone else.
• Being under the influence can exacerbate health risks like dehydration, heat stress and fatigue. These issues may not only impact your performance but can also result in severe long-term health problems.

In addition, employees should:

1. Familiarise themselves with their workplace’s drug and alcohol policy and procedures.
2. Partake in education and awareness sessions to increase understanding of how substance abuse impacts safety and provide them with the tools to make better decisions.
3. Speak up if they suspect a colleague is under the influence. Reporting concerns to management can prevent accidents and help co-workers get the support they need.

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Your safety is in your hands. Don’t let drugs or alcohol put your life or your colleagues' lives at risk. Everyone has a role to play in creating a safer workplace.