An Alcohol and Drugs Policy is intended to inform all employees that being under the influence of drugs, alcohol or other prohibited substances will not be tolerated in the workplace or within work hours. An Alcohol and Drugs Policy should specify that the use of any drugs and alcohol within work hours is a workplace health and safety concern as it can affect a person’s ability to exercise judgment and impair coordination, motor control, concentration and alertness.
The purpose of an Alcohol and Drugs Policy is for a business to outline their expectations regarding alcohol, drugs, and any prescription medications, at work, company events or any workplace social occasions. The policy may also cover off on:
- Whether the employer conducts any drug and or alcohol testing
- The form of drug and alcohol testing
- The frequency and timing of any drug and alcohol testing
- The process if there is a positive drug and or alcohol test
- Employee Assistance Programs
In some industries and subject to industrial relations agreements, businesses are required to abide by specific legislation regarding drug and alcohol testing, e.g. mining, construction, and other high-risk environments that may operate heavy machinery.
Use this template to formulate your own Alcohol and Drugs Policy at your workplace: