Alcohol and Drugs at Work Policy

Introduction

Ashford and St Peters NHS Foundation Trust aspire to put patients first with the highest standard of clinical competence and corporate behaviour, ensuring that safe, fair and equitable procedures are applied.

The consumption of even the smallest amount of alcohol or drug misuse may greatly affect employee’s judgement and efficiency at work and therefore the Trust operates a strict zero tolerance to alcohol, illegal drugs and substances. Employees must therefore not consume alcohol or misuse drugs whilst on duty or on Trust premises, nor should staff be under the influence of alcohol or drugs when reporting for duty.

Aim

To state clearly the standard adopted by the Trust regarding alcohol consumption and drug use and their implications within the workplace.

To prevent accidents and impaired performance at work which may be alcohol or drug related.

To actively promote awareness and understanding of the effects of alcohol and drug related problems within the workplace, and to emphasise the potential dangers of such misuse for both the individuals’ health and work performance.

To provide a framework for dealing with alcohol and drug related problems and to ensure all those involved have access to support.

To provide a policy and procedure for dealing with situations of alcohol and drugs abuse which is fair to individual members of staff as well as protecting the safety of colleagues and patients.

The Trust has a duty to promote equality of opportunity and the removal of discrimination where it is found to exist and will apply this policy fairly and consistently irrespective of race, disability, gender, sexual orientation, religion or belief, age, transgender status, caring responsibilities, flexible working status, pregnancy, relationship status, staff association or trade union activity.

Policy Details

See also:

• Health and Safety Policy
• Policy and Procedure for Sickness Absence
• Performance and Capability Policy
• Disciplinary Policy
• Policy and Procedure for Grievance
• Smoke Free Site Policy
• Dignity at Work
• Work Life Balance Policy
• Social Media Policy