Drugs, alcohol and impairment Toolbox Talk
Alcohol, illegal drugs, some medicines and fatigue can make safety-critical work unsafe. The aim is to prevent harm and obtain help, while applying the site policy consistently.
Key points
- Report fit for work and follow the drugs and alcohol policy.
- Check warnings on prescribed and over-the-counter medicine.
- Tell the appropriate manager confidentially if medication may affect safe work.
- Supervisors must act on observed impairment, not rumour alone.
- Remove an impaired person from risk and arrange safe transport or help.
- Never allow impaired operation, driving, lifting or high-risk work.
- Provide routes to support while addressing safety and conduct fairly.
Do
- Speak up before safety is affected.
- Record objective signs and actions.
- Use confidential support routes.
Don't
- Do not work or drive impaired.
- Do not cover for unsafe behaviour.
- Do not let an impaired person drive home.
Questions to ask the group
- What does fit for work mean here?
- Who must be told about impairing medication?
- What happens if impairment is suspected?
References: Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974; HSE INDG240 Don't mix it: A guide for employers on alcohol at work