Drugs and Alcohol in the Workplace

One final topic that is of great importance in the workplace is the right of all workers to be free from the hazards imposed by a coworker who comes to work under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The abuse of any substance that can alter or impair one’s ability to perform his or her job is a serious concern. Reaction times may be slowed, and the ability to concentrate and to comprehend instructions reduced. Inhibitions are often lowered, and judgment is generally impaired. As a result, people’s safety or even their lives can be at stake. A poorly judged effort when emptying the hot oil from the deep fryer could result in permanent disability. A playful attempt at passing a knife could put out an eye. Forgetting to take the time to properly store and reheat foods could lead to an outbreak of food-borne illness that could kill someone.