Addiction can affect people from all walks of life – men and women, youth and seniors, labourers and professionals. It does not discriminate. Addressing a suspected problem in your organization not only benefits the individual but also the safety of their coworkers and the workplace in general.
Dealing with substance abuse and addiction in the workplace requires some thoughtful consideration, and education is paramount. It’s more manageable to navigate this sensitive topic when you’re armed with the proper knowledge and tools.
Workplace Warnings
According to the Canada Safety Training Centre, 21% of employed Canadians report heavy drinking at least once per month and nearly 10% admitted to using drugs that could impact their work. Those are numbers worth considering.
Some careers are more vulnerable when it comes to addiction, with environment and demands of the job both playing a role.
Physical labourers are more prone to injury which can lead to relying on painkillers or alcohol.
Healthcare workers see a lot of trauma and deal with emotional stress. With easier access to prescription drugs, these workers are at a higher risk of addiction.
Hospitality workers often work late shifts and are surrounded by social drinking which bumps up their risk.
Professions With the Highest Addiction Rates:
- Mining, Oil & Gas
- Construction
- Hospitality
- Arts & Entertainment
- Sales & Retail
- Transportation & Warehouse
- Legal
- Healthcare
- Management & Executives
- Law Enforcement/First Responders
What are the Signs?
There are telltale signs that should alert you that something isn’t right. Perhaps you have an employee that is often late or calls in sick. You may notice a decline in their physical appearance and a level of apathy towards personal hygiene. Someone that once took direction might suddenly be defensive to criticism. Single instances do not equal a crisis, but these are warning signs to keep an eye on.
Behaviours to Watch For:
- Late/absent from the job
- Frequent accidents or mistakes
- Personal appearance/hygiene
- Extremely low productivity in the mornings
- Evasive about personal life
- Physical appearance (bloodshot eyes, bloated face, nosebleeds, etc.)
- Defensive reactions
When you spot these behaviours, document your concerns and speak with your supervisor.
Next Steps
If you are the supervisor or are in leadership at the company, arm yourself with information. It’s important for you to understand the legal guidelines surrounding this topic but also show empathy and compassion toward your employee.
Canadian employers can mandate drug and alcohol testing in safety-sensitive positions; however, you must follow strict legal guidelines and provide clear policies to your employees.
When approaching the employee, ensure the conversation is confidential and held in a private setting. Share your concerns about their health and well-being as well as how their performance impacts the work environment. Be respectful and compassionate as this is a delicate topic.
Explain your company’s policies and any workplace supports you have in place. Ideally, you should have specific information that you can present to them, and they can review it at home.
Many times, these conversations are met with denial or resistance, and you will need to have more than one conversation to deal with the issue.
This guide published by Canadian Human Rights Commission outlines the employer’s duty to accommodate and is packed with helpful information.
Like so many negative influences, substance abuse grows in secrecy. You can be part of the solution by breaking the silence and reacting with compassion, information and suitable workplace policies.
For more resources on workplace substance use, visit the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction. Their guides can help employers navigate the many aspects of substances and the workplace.
In addition, Teen Challenge Canada has recently launched Facing Addiction/Embracing Recovery. This informative presentation educates businesses and communities about the realities of addiction and the hope of recovery. If you would like more information or to book an event, please complete our online form.