Tips for your drug & alcohol policy
“Fitness for work means a person’s capacity to work without risk to themselves or others’ health and safety,” says Simon Clayer, Senior Associate with HopgoodGanim , adding that many things can affect fitness for work, including stress, depression, anxiety and fatigue.
Clayer recommends any employer considering drafting a drug and alcohol in the workplace policy consider the following guidelines:
- Develop the policy in consultation with all stakeholders in the workplace such as unions, workers, and health and safety representatives;
- Apply the policy equally to all workers across all levels of the business;
- Clearly state what is acceptable behaviour and the consequences of any unacceptable behaviour;
- If the policy includes testing, describe the testing protocols and procedures; and
- Ensure the policy is clearly communicated to all members of the workforce.
