Alcohol and Other Drug Procedure / Fit for Work Procedure

This Alcohol and Other Drug Procedure / Fit for Work Procedure is provided to support the policy paper. When approaching the sensitive topic the impact alcohol and other drug (AOD) misuse may have on an individual’s fitness for work, there are inevitable trade-offs which must be made between individual lifestyle choices and the obligations individuals have to themselves and others with whom they work.

Introduction

1.1 XXXX (hereinafter referred to as “the Company”) wishes to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the safety and health of all people associated with its operations and those of its customers.

1.2 The Company is required to comply with Legislative and other occupational health and safety obligations.  The Company must take steps to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, it meets its obligations to employees, contractors and visitors, and conducts its operations in a safe and responsible manner.

1.3 The Company regards it essential that all persons engaged in its operations, are aware of and fully comply with, all legislative and company requirements.

1.4 In approaching the sensitive topic the impact alcohol and other drug (AOD) misuse may have on an individual’s fitness for work, there are inevitable trade-offs which must be made between individual lifestyle choices and the obligations individuals have to themselves and others with whom they work.  The Company believes it has established fair and accountable parameters which meet all our obligations.

1.5  The management of the risks associated with the use of AOD at work is essential to ensuring a safe and healthy work environment.  Any individual present in the workplace, who has consumed AOD could; endanger lives, present a potential risk to safety, and potentially cause damage to property and equipment which the Company seeks to prevent.

1.6 This Alcohol and Other Drug Procedure/Fit For Work Procedure (‘Procedure’) combines a range of strategies including education/awareness training, employee assistance programmes, AOD testing and, where necessary, the taking of action for a breach of this Alcohol and Other Drug Procedure / Fit for Work Procedure.

1.7 This Alcohol and Other Drug Procedure / Fit for Work Procedure is intended to ensure all employees and contractors are in a condition to safely carry out work.  The unauthorised use of AOD by employees and contractors is strictly prohibited.  Any employee or contractor established to be in contravention of this Alcohol and Other Drug Procedure / Fit for Work Procedure shall be subject to the Company disciplinary procedures, which may include termination of an employee’s employment or a contractor’s engagement.

1.8  If Alcohol and Other Drug Procedure / Fit for Work Procedure is in conflict with any relevant legislation then that legislation will take precedence over this Procedure.