Alcohol and drug problems at work. The shift to prevention

Provides background information and a framework for the development and implementation of a prevention-oriented approach to workplace alcohol and drug problems. This volume examines the advantages of establishing workplace substance abuse initiatives and shows how enterprises of all sizes can set up and implement their own programmes to deal with this growing problem.

This timely book looks at the physiological effects of alcohol and drugs, the certain social demographic factors that come into play, as well as the array of problems relating to intoxication, regular use and dependency as they affect the workplace. Similarly, the volume considers the overall paradigm shift towards prevention and demonstrates why the workplace is not only an appropriate place to launch drug and alcohol prevention programmes – but in many ways is a “win-win” proposition for employers and workers alike.

While offering numerous examples of drug and alcohol policies from companies around the world, the volume presents a useful framework and step-by-step guidance on implementing and sustaining such prevention programmes. It focuses on key concerns such as programme feasibility, external and internal needs assessment, awareness and education campaigns, as well as training for supervisors, key staff and workers’ representatives. In addition, it includes useful checklists, sample workplace drug and alcohol policies and self-assessment tools which employers’ and workers’ can put to use in their own enterprises. An extensive list of Internet, print and audio-visual resources is also provided.

Key features:
- Explains the advantages of establishing workplace substance abuse prevention programmes
- Examines key factors surrounding substance abuse problems and how it affects the workplace
- Provides a useful framework and practical guidance for implementing and sustaining prevention programmes
- Offers numerous examples of policies currently used by companies around the world
- Covers key aspects of developing programmes such as feasibility, external and internal assessment, awareness and education campaigns and training.
- Includes helpful checklists, sample forms and self-assessment tools
- Presents an extensive list of Internet, print and audio-visual resources