Alcohol - What are the OHS risks?
Alcohol is a depressant drug which slows brain activity and responses. There can be effects on mental and motor functions at a blood alcohol level of about 0.03 (equivalent to two standard drinks per hour).
It creates a range of problems in the workplace. Employees who use alcohol at harmful levels can injure themselves and others, lose their job or family and damage their physical and mental health.
People who work with an alcohol user have to deal with risks to their health, safety and welfare, cover for poor work performance, become involved in disputes and may feel the need to ‘dob in’ a mate for their own good.
Employers are faced with lateness and absenteeism, lost time and production from accidents, inefficiency, and damage to plant, equipment and other property.