Introduction

Maintaining a safe, healthy, and drug-free workplace is a collective responsibility. Substance abuse in the workplace can lead to safety hazards, decreased productivity, and increased risks for everyone. The United States Department of Labor emphasizes the importance of understanding the signs of substance abuse and taking appropriate steps to help affected coworkers seek assistance. Employees can play a vital role in fostering a safer work environment by recognizing symptoms and taking appropriate action.

Recognizing Substance Abuse in the Workplace

Common Signs of Alcohol and Drug Abuse

Substance abuse can manifest in various ways, affecting an individual’s physical health, emotions, and behavior. While symptoms may vary depending on the substance, common indicators include:

• Physical Signs: Unusual chills, smell of alcohol, excessive sweating, weight loss, and physical deterioration.
• Emotional Symptoms: Increased aggression, anxiety, denial, depression, paranoia, or burnout.
• Behavioral Clues: Excessive talking, impaired coordination, irritability, lack of energy, poor motivation, and reduced attention span.

It is essential to remember that exhibiting one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily indicate substance abuse. However, a pattern of these behaviors, particularly when they impact workplace safety, should not be ignored.

Workplace Hazards Related to Substance Use

Substance use can create serious hazards, particularly in workplaces where employees rely on each other for safety. Signs that alcohol or drug use may be compromising workplace safety include:

• Carelessness and repeated mistakes
• Damaging company equipment or property
• Frequent accidents or mishaps
• Careless operation of hazardous materials or machinery
• Unreliability and failure to be present in assigned areas
• Ignoring details in routine job duties
• Unwillingness to follow directions and argumentative behavior
• Making elaborate or questionable excuses for incomplete work
• Taking unnecessary risks and disregarding safety measures

Ignoring these behaviors not only puts the affected employee at risk but also compromises the well-being of coworkers and the organization as a whole.

How Employees Can Address Substance Abuse in the Workplace

What Not to Do

It can be challenging to address substance use in a coworker. Many employees may choose to ignore the problem to avoid conflict. Others may inadvertently enable the behavior by covering for the affected worker, providing excuses, or avoiding contact altogether. Attempts to personally intervene—such as disposing of their substances or making idle threats—are typically ineffective and can even backfire.

What to Do If You Suspect a Coworker Has a Problem

While employees are not responsible for diagnosing substance abuse, they can take appropriate steps to help ensure workplace safety:

1. Show Concern – Express that you have noticed changes in their behavior and emphasize your concern for their well-being and workplace safety.

2. Be Specific – Reference specific incidents rather than making generalized statements such as "You always..."

3. Connect the Behavior to Substance Use – If applicable, point out how substance use may be affecting job performance and safety.

4. Encourage Seeking Help – Provide information on available support programs, such as an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) or external resources like SAMHSA’s Treatment Locator or 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

5. Set Boundaries – Clearly state that you will no longer cover up for their behavior and avoid making empty threats.

6. Describe the Impact – Explain how their actions affect you, other coworkers, and overall workplace safety.

7. Reconfirm Your Concern – You do not need to force them to admit to a substance problem, but remain firm in your stance.

When to Escalate Concerns

Despite efforts to encourage a coworker to seek help, they may remain in denial. If the behavior continues to compromise workplace safety or directly affects your ability to perform your job, it may be necessary to escalate the concern:

• Inform a supervisor: A manager or supervisor may have additional resources or workplace policies that can assist in addressing the situation.
• Follow company policy: If your workplace has a working alone policy or specific drug and alcohol testing procedures, adhere to them.
• Prioritize safety: If you witness unsafe actions, immediate intervention may be necessary to prevent accidents or injuries.

Conclusion

A drug-free workplace is essential to ensuring a safe and productive work environment for all employees. Substance abuse should not be ignored, especially when it poses a hazard to workplace safety. By recognizing the signs of alcohol and drug use, addressing concerns appropriately, and providing information on available resources, employees can play a key role in maintaining a healthy and secure work environment. Encouraging coworkers to seek help before disciplinary action becomes necessary benefits both the individual and the organization as a whole.