Alcohol and drug abuse affect every area of an addict's life, including home, relationships, health and work. The vocational effects of substance abuse can be ongoing and easy to spot or subtler, going undetected for years. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) reports that most substance abusers are employed, creating hazardous workplaces and unproductive workforces. Substance abuse affects both the employers of addicts and the addicts who cannot achieve their career goals.
Accidents
People who abuse drugs and alcohol on the job are more likely to get hurt at work, reports OSHA. Ten to 20 percent of all workers who die on the job test positive for drugs or alcohol. Additionally, the most dangerous occupations seem to attract those who also use illegal substances or have a drinking problem, increasing the risks of accidents. Workplace accidents caused by substance abuse, especially in industries such as construction, manufacturing and mining, are avoidable with policies and treatment programs in place. OSHA reports that workers found using drugs usually can return to their jobs following treatment and continuing support.
Costs
The U.S. Department of Labor reports that costs to businesses related to drug and alcohol-related problems in 1990 hit close to $82 billion. Moderate substance abusers--those who do not have serious addictions, but occasionally get high or have one too many drinks at lunch--were responsible for 70 to 80 percent of company thefts, quarrels and accidents. High rates of absenteeism are directly related to drug and alcohol abuse. Researchers reported that though they are difficult to measure, they are certain that workplace substance abuse also contributes to high incidences of low morale, negativity, low educational development and poor performance.
Morale
In addition to the costs of accidents, poor performance and absenteeism due to substance abuse, employers believe that substance abuse negatively impacts other employees' performances. Sober and healthy workers are at risk for accidents caused by those under the influence and often must pick up the slack for workers who cannot perform their duties. Other employees complain of poor personal habits that cause odors and slovenly dress in those who use drugs and alcohol. Most workplaces and other institutions, such as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, implement strict policies on the use of drugs or alcohol in the workplace in order to provide a safe work environment. Many companies have a zero-tolerance policy and those who are discovered using drugs or alcohol in the workplace are either terminated or offered treatment options.
