Implementation of Code of Practice on Prevention and Eradication of Drug Abuse, Alcohol and Substance in the Workplace
This Code of Practice is intended to assist employers and employees to meet their responsibilities under the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) 1994 and to address the problem of drugs and alcohol in the workplace. Under Section 15 of OSHA, employers are responsible for ensuring the safety, health and welfare of all employees. Section 24 (1) OSHA also explains that employees are responsible for ensuring reasonable care for the safety and health of himself and others who may be affected by his actions in the workplace. Occupational Health Division was responsible for carrying out the monitoring of compliance with Code of Practice on Prevention and Eradication of Drug Abuse, Alcohol and Substance in the Workplace at the state level. The monitored employees or workplace were guided on a few aspects, such as policy making, establishment of Committee on Prevention and Eradication of Drug Abuse, Alcohol and Substance in the Workplace, and training of employees and officers in charge.
Results of monitoring compliance with this Code of Practice on 11 employers across the country revealed that all the employers have implemented the Code of Practice. Awareness of employers in developing and implementing policies and programs on drug abuse prevention, alcohol and substance is important to reduce accidents, absenteeism, high rates of resignation and involvement in crime among its employees due to their effect. It will also help employers improve the quality of products and services offered and thereby increasing overall productivity for their company.
