One Reason Why Workplace Accidents Skyrocket

The likelihood for workplace accidents skyrockets when employees are under the influence. Drinking on the job can also lead to aggravated assault and sexual battery charges.

Other side effects of addiction and drug abuse at work can include:

• Withdrawal symptoms affecting job performance
• Inability to focus or concentrate while under the influence
• Needless risk-taking affecting company
• Illegal sales of drugs to coworkers and other illicit activities

Those who abuse drugs are not the only ones affected in the workplace. Friends, family members, and coworkers report mental stress at work as well.¹

What can we as employers and coworkers do to help?

One of the best things coworkers and employers alike can do to help employees struggling with substance abuse is to encourage them to seek treatment, but then let them get back to work. Establishing and adhering to a routine is essential for creating a healthy structure and foundation. The brain has something new to focus on, which is better than sitting alone with one’s thoughts and thinking back on past mistakes and potentially using again.

Employers should sit down with troubled employees to create a legal agreement that outlines what is expected upon the individual’s return and the consequences of failing to meet that agreement. Many organizations offer an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) specifically for situations like this, and employees can be referred for help at no cost. As for other employees who are aware of the abuse, they should act as sources of support for the returning or struggling individual, doing their best not to churn up the rumor mill in the process. Both coworkers and employers should also make sure the employee in question does not become obsessed with work, something that can block her or him from recovering or succumbing to another addiction.²

Let’s lookout for one another and work together to make our banks healthy for all employees, keeping each other safe.

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¹Alcohol and Drugs in the Workplace – AddictionCenter.com
²How to Help a Coworker with Substance Abuse – highfocuscenters.pyramidhealthcarepa.com