Drinking at Work

Do you have employees with a drinking problem

Drinking at work is certainly a hugh problem if it occurs at your facility.

But drinking alcohol is very common in our society, but when it involves drinking on the job - it is now a problem.

Approximately 75,000 Americans die as a result of excessive alcohol use each year. This is the 3rd leading lifestyle-related cause of death.

Alcohol also plays a role in nearly half of all traffic deaths.

Drinking at Work - How much is too much…

Moderate alcohol use is no more than 1 drink a day for adult women - and men over the age of 65.

For men younger than 65 - it is no more than 2 drinks per day.

Heavy drinking is an average of more than 2 drinks a day for men younger than 65. For women and men over the age of 65 it is an average of more than of 1 drink a day.

Drinking at Work - Do any of your employees have an alcohol problem…

Do these actions describe them…

…Drinking alone or in secret.

…Not remembering conversations or commitments.

…A habit of having drinks before - with - or after dinner.

…They have lost interest in activities and hobbies that used to bring them pleasure.

…Feeling they need to drink.

…They become irritable around the time they usually drink.

…They keep alcohol in unusual places at home - or in their car. …Gulping drinks or ordering doubles.

…They have problems with attendance - relationships - and money.

…They have developed a tolerance to alcohol. They are able hide that they have been drinking because of this. …Their health has been changing.

…Productivity and attention to detail begins to decline rapidly.

Drinking at Work - Be helpful - but protect your employees…

If you are able to help prior to identifying that they have been drinking on the job - it will save much heartache in the end. Be watchful of the above signs and don’t be afraid to talk with the employee and ask if they are experiencing any issues.

I would start the conversation something like - Hello John Doe - I have noticed that over the last few weeks that your performance is not what it used to be - and I am concerned that you may have something going on in your life that is effecting this - is there anything I can help you with?

You have accomplished a couple of things by doing this - the first is that you care - and the second is that you have identified to them that you have noticed something going on.

Remember at all times if you detect that they have been drinking - you must address it - because they present a safety risk to everyone else at your work place.

Thank you!

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