Today, the British Medical Association (BMA) published new guidance for addressing the issue of alcohol misuse in the workplace. Produced by the BMA’s Occupational Medicine Committee, the report offers information, support and advice not just to medical professionals but all health professionals to address alcohol and illegal drugs in the workplace.
With over 8,700 alcohol-related deaths in 2011, alcohol is a significant workplace issue and a growing concern for employers as a result of lower productivity, inappropriate behaviour, and poor performance linked to its misuse.
The report cites a lack of access to occupational health professionals leading many workers to rely on their GP or hospital specialist for advice relating to fitness to work. Given this poor coverage, the guidance aims to raise awareness amongst all doctors of the problems associated with alcohol in the working population.
Alcohol, drugs and the workplace – The role of medical professionals is available to download here.