Many New Zealanders use alcohol and other drugs, so there's a chance you will work with someone who does so in a way that impacts their ability to do their job.
If someone is impaired in the workplace, they could put themselves or others at risk. Impairment can occur due to lack of sleep, stress, relationship breakdowns, external stress or pressures, prescription medication, or alcohol and other drug use. Health and Safety legislation requires employers to ensure a safe working environment for all employees, and part of that is mitigating the risk of impairment. In safety-critical worksites, employers are legally allowed to drug test their employees because the risk of serious injury or death is high.
There are many things organisations can do to support their staff, without alcohol and other drugs getting in the way.
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