Understanding alcohol harm in the workplace
The consumption of alcohol is a socially accepted norm in our culture, associated with relaxation, celebration and socialising. However, when alcohol consumption extends beyond moderation or into the workplace, it can affect professional performance and cause significant harm. It costs the UK economy more than £7 billion annually in lost productivity due to alcohol. An estimated 167,000 working years are lost to alcohol misuse annually.
This week - 1st to 7th July - is Alcohol Awareness Week, and the theme this year is ‘Understanding alcohol harm.’ Run by Alcohol Change UK, the campaign seeks to raise awareness of the dangers of alcohol by promoting open discussion, providing resources and campaigning for change. The scope of this year’s theme is far-reaching, and the campaign will be challenging the stereotype of alcohol as an ‘individual’s problem’ by encouraging workplaces, community groups and charities to get involved.
In this blog post we consider the ways in which alcohol use and abuse can impact safety in the workplace. We explore the signs to look out for and the strategies employers can implement to mitigate the risks of alcohol harm.
What is alcohol harm?
Excessive alcohol consumption can have harmful consequences to our health and wellbeing in the short- and long-term, from quality of sleep to personal relationships, including a myriad of alcohol-related diseases. These issues are collectively known as ‘alcohol harm’. The aim of Alcohol Awareness Week is to encourage conversations about the role alcohol plays in our society, and the impact of alcohol harm beyond the individual.
How does alcohol harm impact the workplace?
More than 25 million adults in England regularly drink alcohol, and statistically, they are more likely to be employed than non-drinkers. This means the effects of alcohol harm are amplified in the workplace.
You may be surprised to know that most alcohol-related workplace incidents are not caused by very heavy drinkers, but by more moderate drinkers. Most people are ill-informed about the number of units in drinks or how long alcohol remains in the body, and it only takes a small amount of alcohol to impair concentration and affect reaction times. Here are some of the ways that alcohol can impact on the workplace:
Reduced productivity
One of the most immediate impacts of alcohol in the workplace is reduced productivity. 40% of employers mention alcohol as a significant cause of low productivity. Employees who drink heavily the night before may suffer from hangovers and the effects of poor sleep. This typically results in decreased concentration, slower reaction times and impaired judgment.
These factors collectively lead to lower productivity levels and can hinder the overall performance of the team. 25% of employees say that drugs or alcohol have affected them at work, and 23% say they have experienced decreased productivity as a result.
Increased absenteeism and tardiness
Alcohol abuse can lead to higher levels of absenteeism and employees arriving late for their shift or usual start time. It’s estimated that between 3 and 5% of all work absence is caused by alcohol consumption. As well as affecting the individual’s productivity, it also places additional stress on their colleagues.
Safety concerns
Workplace safety is a critical issue, particularly in industries such as construction, manufacturing, rail, and transportation, where operating machinery or driving is required. Alcohol impairs coordination and judgment, increasing the likelihood of accidents and injuries. This not only endangers the individual but also poses huge risks to colleagues and the public. Shockingly, it has been estimated that 40% of accidents at work are caused by or related to alcohol use.
Impact on workplace morale
The behaviour of an employee under the influence of alcohol can negatively affect workplace morale. It can lead to conflicts, inappropriate behaviour, and strained relationships among team members. A massive 35% of people say they’ve observed colleagues who are under the influence of drugs and alcohol at work. This creates a negative work environment, reducing overall job satisfaction and increasing employee turnover.
What are the signs of alcohol harm in the workplace?
Recognising the signs of alcohol problems in the workplace is crucial for early intervention. Training managers at all levels to understand alcohol harm is imperative. Some of the most common indicators of alcohol misuse include:
Frequent absences: Unexplained or frequent sick days.
Tardiness: Regularly arriving late to work or forgetting shift times.
Performance issues: Decline in work quality and missed deadlines.
Behavioural changes: Mood swings, irritability, or inappropriate behaviour.
Physical signs: Smelling of alcohol, bloodshot eyes, or unsteady gait.
How can employers mitigate alcohol-related risk?
Employers have a responsibility for the welfare of their employees, not least because workplace stress can exacerbate alcohol harm. 27% of people say that stress at work makes them drink more. Many workplace cultures actively encourage drinking, through socialising or workplace events where heavy drinking is the norm.
For this reason, it’s vital that employers address alcohol-related issues proactively. By putting in place some key measures, responsible employers can make a huge difference to productivity, safety, and employee wellbeing. Here are some strategies to consider:
Develop a clear alcohol policy
Having a clear, written drug and alcohol policy is essential. This policy should outline acceptable behaviour, the consequences of policy violations, and the support available for employees struggling with alcohol issues. It should be communicated to all employees and consistently enforced, utilising drug and alcohol testing when appropriate. Ensure the policy is available as part of your employee handbook, visible on your intranet if you have one, and forms part of onboarding orientation.
Promote a healthy workplace culture
Creating a workplace culture that promotes health and wellbeing can reduce the prevalence of alcohol problems. Ensure social events are not entirely centred around alcohol, and have delicious alcohol-free drinks on offer. Encourage healthy behaviours through wellness programmes, provide access to resources such as counselling services, and foster a supportive environment where employees feel comfortable seeking help. Engage an external employee assistance programme if this suits your organisation better, to ensure your employees can access support with mental and physical health issues 24/7.
Provide education and training
Educating employees about the risks of alcohol abuse and training managers to recognise the signs of alcohol problems can be effective preventive measures. Regular workshops and informational sessions can help raise awareness and reduce the stigma associated with seeking help.
Conduct regular assessments
Regular assessments of workplace safety and employee health can help identify potential risks and address them proactively. This includes routine health screenings, surveys to gauge employee wellbeing, and safety audits to ensure a safe working environment. Engaging with employees in this way also has the benefit of improving relationships and making them feel valued. This may in turn help reduce some of the stresses that can lead to alcohol problems int the first place.
Conclusion
Alcohol harm in the workplace is a multifaceted issue that requires a proactive and compassionate approach. Employers must balance the need for a safe and productive work environment with support for employees facing alcohol-related challenges. By implementing clear policies, promoting a healthy workplace culture, providing education, training and support, employers can mitigate the risks associated with alcohol and foster a positive and productive workplace.
Understanding and addressing alcohol harm in the workplace not only protects the health and safety of employees but also enhances overall organisational performance and morale. It is a shared responsibility that requires commitment and collaboration from both employers and employees. Through these efforts, workplaces can become safer, healthier, and more supportive environments for everyone.
