Drugs Rockin’ Roll!
Late nights, tomorrow……, Duty Calls.
Is self-entitlement and the Australian drug epidemic causing risk to organisations?
With the festive season upon us, binge drinking, and substance abuse is sure to be rife.
The alarming increases in usage, across the worst four drug classes, over the past four years are: Methamphetamine (ICE) 32.6%, Cocaine 85%, MDMA (Ecstasy) 110.2% and Heroin 23%*.
Individuals are not aware Drugs and Alcohol (D&A) stay in the system long after the so called high has gone. The effects are reduced cognitive and critical thinking abilities, coupled with an emotional roller coaster as the body and brain try to recover. Compounding the problem is limited sleep from late nights where the brain fails to compartmentalize. This leaves one’s ability frayed and memory recollection limited.
How does an organisation maintain a safe work environment and individuals prove their Duty Of Care?
A Drug and Alcohol policy is a start but unless monitored and maintained organisations are left short when D&A cause a serious issue. Until addressed they can be destroying every facet of a business’s bottom line.
A comprehensive Drug and Alcohol Management Plan (DAMP) is the solution. Policy, testing regimes, education, and support are the foundation. Culture is critical. Many organisations believe they know their staff. This will not stand up in court as a reason for not having a DAMP.
Taking a reactionary stance post incident is too late.
A proactive approach prevents said issue undermining an organisation. Importantly, it can empower individuals to make change and assistance can be provided.
A supportive culture saves time and money. With D&A used as a crux to deal with life issues, especially in this climate, supporting staff saves on hiring and retraining to achieve peak performance.
Safety, productivity and quality can be strengthened with a DAMP. Morale is improved with a proactive stance towards D&A in the workplace. HR headaches and litigation are reduced when a measurable system is in place.
Promote a healthy lifestyle and have a safe festive season.
Mario McDonagh
Director
STAH Group
Support – The STAH Program, Tackling Mental Health and Substance Abuse
Testing – Screening On Site (a corporate sponsor if possible where it’s been referenced), MBASA’s preferred provider for drug and alcohol testing
Awareness – STAH Education, Comprehensive Drug and Alcohol Awareness training
Help – Access to support services via our website
*The Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission, “National Wastewater Drug Monitoring Program” Report 12, 2021.
