FEATURES
ALCO-SAFE
There is equipment available to test and screen individuals who may be intoxicated.
Substance abuse – a common problem
Substance abuse is unfortunately common on site or in factories; we look at the reasons for abuse and the risks associated with intoxicated employees.
By Ntsako Khosa
There are many reasons behind workers indulging in alcohol or drugs before, during or after work. Although laws surrounding substance abuse in the workplace are generic as regulated in the Occupational Health and Safety Act( OHSA), the South African Labour Guide states that it is a dismissible offence.
In cases that have gone through the organisation, it advises that the Employer ' s Policy on Alcohol and Drug Consumption on or off the Workplace should have a clear guideline that stipulates zero tolerance for such behaviour, as well as test procedures.
‘ For example, a breathalyser test for alcohol is required – or a urine test for drugs. The policy must state that note will be taken of circumstantial evidence, such as bloodshot eyes, slurred speech, the smell of alcohol on the breath, unsteadiness on his feet, dishevelled appearance, aggressive or abusive or arrogant or out of character behaviour and the inability to walk a 10m straight line with arms held out horizontally. There should be a proper‘ test sheet’,’ it says.
ON SHAKY GROUND
It is a fact that having intoxicated employees on site or in the factory ís dangerous and uncomfortable for the working environment.
See more on page 48
46 FEBRUARY / MARCH 2018 //