Workers may turn to substances due to poor job design (including boring or extremely demanding work), unrealistic deadlines and performance targets, inadequate training and supervisory support, peer pressure, marital or personal relationship problems, trauma or stress, gambling or financial problems etc.
Alcohol can have a range of possible effects including delayed reaction times, impaired coordination and memory and a decreased ability to concentrate and communicate. Cannabis can result in redness, poor coordination and slow reaction times, while opioids can reduce vision and make people drowsy. Not to forget that both alcohol and drugs can have hangover effects that can last for several hours or days.
It is common knowledge in the industry that when so-called ‘blue-collar’ workers are impaired by alcohol consumption or drug use and operate tools or machinery, it can jeopardise the health and safety of themselves and others. Yet it is important not to overlook the seriousness of ‘white-collar’ workers being under the influence as well.
Responsibilities for health and safety are placed on all pares in the workplace. All workers must take reasonable care for their own health and safety and ensure they do not adversely affect that of others. Employers must provide and maintain a working environment that is safe and free of risks to health, so far as is reasonably practicable.
Employers can prepare and implement a workplace alcohol and drugs management plan that outlines the measures that will be taken to eliminate and reduce hazards. Some common measures include education, training and drug and alcohol testing. Employers can also establish rehabilitation, counselling and employee assistance programs.
If you’re considering drug and alcohol testing, work with professionals
Headquartered in Perth, Western Australia, Alcolizer Technology is a leading provider of alcohol and drug (AOD) testing solutions to the Australian resources sector.
The company’s product range includes an array of fast, sophisticated and accurate handheld and wall mounted breathalysers. The Alcolizer LE5 Breathalyser, Druglizer LE5 Drug Tester, HH4 and HH3 Breathalysers and Centurion and Wall Mount 4 were recently registered under the famous green and gold Australian mark of authenticity.
When purchasing Australian-made products including Alcolizer’s offerings, businesses can be confident they get a high-quality product that is made to last. Alcolizer’s products are also designed and manufactured to current Australian Standards where applicable.
Dedicated research and development teams help to keep Alcolizer Technology at the forefront of industry news and developments. This makes it possible for the company to develop innovative technologies that can meet the ever-changing AOD landscape and keep up with the requirements of modern mining companies.
A great example of this is Alcolizer’s AlcoCONNECT™ Live Data Management system, which can provide businesses with AOD test data (including the number of tests taken, site location, me of day and result) at their fingertips.
And to ensure operators are fully equipped to use their products, Alcolizer Technology offers engaging and informative training and education programs as well as first-class support services.
For more information about the products and services Alcolizer Technology offers please contact your sales representative or visit us at www.alcolizer.com/contact
Sources: A handbook for the earth resources industry: Management of alcohol and drugs in mines, WorkSafe Victoria, 2017.
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