Ensuring A Safe Work Environment

Getting substance abuse out of the workplace – not people!

Drug & Alcohol Policy & Awareness Training

Under the Canadian Human Rights Act, alcoholism and drug addiction are considered a disability, therefore those who have such a diagnosis are protected [1]. Companies can be proactive by implementing a drug and alcohol policy and procedure in the workplace to ensure that they are legislatively compliant and that the workplace is kept alcohol and drug free. Training can be tailored to fit the industry specific needs of your company and to address any particular areas of concern. Some of the topics which can be discussed include: effects and dangers of substance abuse, how to deal with employees under the influence, handling reasonable cause situations, drug and alcohol testing, duty to accommodate and creating a culture of zero tolerance in the workplace. Employees benefit from the information the training imparts, as well as the delivery of the training by a third party – which allows for an open dialogue about drugs and alcohol. Management benefits from the section of training devoted to outlining how to recognize signs of substance use and abuse, as well as the procedure for dealing with employees under the influence. Managers are taught how to properly investigate and document an incident and take control of the situation.