Alcohol, Drugs and Fatigue in the Workplace

UNDERSTANDING THE RISKS

A range of factors can affect a worker’s ability to perform safely, including personal and workplace influences. Alcohol, drugs, and fatigue are key risks that can impair concentration, coordination, and decision-making.

When a worker is impaired, they not only put themselves at risk but also create unsafe conditions for others on site. This can lead to increased incidents, reduced productivity, and serious injuries.

ARRIVE FIT FOR WORK

Being fit for work means arriving ready to perform your duties safely, without impairment from alcohol, drugs, or fatigue.

Ifyou are not fit for work, you are not safe to work.

ALCOHOL

Alcohol affects coordination, judgment and reaction times – even in small amounts.

Workers must:

• Not report to work under the influence of alcohol
• Be aware that alcohol can remain in the system the next day
• Follow workplace expectations at events where alcohol is present

Safe Practice: If there is any doubt, do not work, drive, or operate machinery—notify your supervisor immediately.

DRUG (ILLICIT , PRESCRIPTION & OVER- THE-

COUNTER)

Drugs can impair your ability to work safely, including illegal substances, prescribed medication, and common pharmacy products.

• Never work under the influence of illegal drugs
• Check with a doctor regarding side effects of prescribed medication
• Be cautious with medications that cause drowsiness (e.g. cold and flu tablets)

Safe Practice: Inform your supervisor confidentially if medication may affect your ability to work safely.

FATIGUE

Fatigue reduces alertness, slows reaction time, and impacts decision-making, increasingthe likelihood of incidents.

Fatigue can result from long hours, inadequate rest, or extended periods awake.

• Plan adequate rest between shifts
• Avoid working when excessively tired
• Report fatigue concerns before starting or during work

Safe Practice: If you are too fatigued to work safely, stop and notify your supervisor.

RESPONSIBILITY ON SITE

Maintaining a safe workplace is a shared responsibility. Workers must:

• Arrive fit for work and ready to perform safely
• Report hazards, incidents, or concerns about impairment
• Look out for teammates who may not be fit for work

QUICK QUIZ

1. What does “fit for work” mean?
2. How can alcohol affect your ability to work safely?
3. What should you do if medication may impact your performance?
4. What are the risks associated with fatigue on site?

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Alcohol, drugs, and fatigue significantly impact judgement, coordination, and reaction time.
• Workers must be fit for work – physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of performing tasks safely.
• Impairment increases the risk of incidents, injuries, and unsafe decisions on site.
• Everyone has a responsibility to manage their fitness for work and report concerns.