Drug & Alcohol Abuse on the Job Site Training

Why This Matters

  • Impaired workers are 3.6x more likely to be in an accident
  • 1 in 5 construction workers report heavy alcohol use

What's Prohibited

  • Reporting to work impaired
  • Possession, use, or sale of drugs or alcohol on the job site
  • Operating equipment while impaired

Recognizing Impairment

  • Slurred speech
  • Loss of balance
  • Drowsiness
  • Erratic behavior
  • Odor of alcohol or drugs
  • Glassy eyes

Prescription Drug Reality

Opioids, sedatives, and stimulants impair ability; must notify supervisor before working

What to Do If You See It

  • Don't confront alone
  • Remove from hazard
  • Notify supervisor immediately
  • Document observations

Testing Procedures

  • Pre-employment testing
  • Random testing
  • Post-incident testing
  • Reasonable suspicion testing
  • Return-to-duty testing
  • Refusal is treated as positive result

Getting Help

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • SAMHSA Helpline: 1-800-662-4357
  • Voluntary help before violation leads to better outcomes

Key Takeaways

  • Impaired workers increase accident risk
  • Strict rules on reporting and possession on site
  • Recognize impairment signs
  • Follow testing procedures
  • Know how to get help

Quiz

1. What should you do if you suspect a co-worker is impaired?

2. Can you work on a prescription that affects alertness without telling anyone?

3. What happens if you refuse a drug/alcohol test?

4. Impaired workers are how many times more likely to be in an accident?

5. What is the SAMHSA helpline number?