Being under the influence of alcohol or drugs can seriously impair an individual’s judgement and reactions leading to an increased risk of accidents and injuries occurring.
The aim of this policy is to ensure the safety of all employees, workers, and visitors by having clear rules in place regarding use and possession of alcohol and drugs, and to support those who have reported a problem with alcohol or drug dependence.
All employees and workers will be treated consistently and fairly in line with this policy, and the rules on alcohol and drugs will be strictly enforced.
Employees with an illness related to alcohol or drugs are encouraged to disclose this at the earliest opportunity to ensure support and help with treatment. All matters concerning alcohol and drugs shall be treated as confidential.
The Company’s alcohol and drugs policy applies to all employees, workers and contractors. Misconduct in relation to alcohol and drugs will be dealt with in relation to the internal regulation.
The Company’s policy is that during working hours and at all times whilst on work premises employees must be free from the influence of drugs or alcohol. This will help to ensure the health and safety of employees and others with whom they come into contact, to maintain the efficient and effective operation of the business, and to ensure customers receive the service they require. For those reasons, the following rules will be strictly enforced.
No employee, worker or contractor shall
- report or try to report for work when unfit1 due to alcohol or drugs (illegal or not) or to substance abuse;
- be in possession of alcohol or illegal drugs2 in the workplace;
- supply others with alcohol or illegal drugs2 in the workplace;
- consume alcohol or illegal drugs or abuse any substance whilst at work.
In addition, employees, workers or contractors must
- ensure they are aware of the side effects of any prescription drugs;
- advise their line manager or a member of the management team immediately of any side effects of prescription drugs, which may affect work performance or the health and safety of themselves or others.
Contravention of these rules is gross misconductand the Company will take disciplinary actionfor anybreach.
In addition, possession of or dealing in illegal drugs on Company premises will, be reported to the Police.
1 Whether an employee is fit for work is a matter for the reasonable opinion of management.
2 Illegal drugs include but are not limited to heroin, cannabis/marijuana, cocaine, ecstasy and amphetamines