. CompDrug, Inc. 547 East Eleventh Ave.
Columbus, OH 43211
Phone: 614 224-4506
compdrug@compdrug.org
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Employer Tip Sheet #11
Avoiding Problems With Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drugs
Making Prevention Work
Actions for Employers
- Announce that prevention of alcohol, tobacco, and other drug (ATOD) problems
is a major corporate focus and that you expect everyone to take part in this
collective effort.
- Be aware of the potential risks that ATOD pose for any business or
organization: increased absenteeism, tardiness, and use of sick leave and
health services; higher insurance and Workers’ Compensation costs; more injuries,
fatalities, and thefts; lower productivity and product quality; and reduced
employee morale and higher turnover.
- Be aware of the connection between alcohol and other drugs and sexually
transmitted diseases, including HIV/AIDS. Using alcohol and other drugs can
lead to unplanned and unprotected sex. Many drugs, including alcohol and tobacco
products, also interfere with the body’s immune system.
- Fully explain the benefits and procedures of your drug-free workplace program
or policy to all employees.
- Host alcohol-free events, emphasizing the company commitment to preventing
injury or death associated with drinking and driving, especially around the holidays.
- Provide food and beverages in company settings that encourage a healthy lifestyle.
- Be a positive role model consistent with your messages to your employees. Do
not engage in any illegal, unhealthy, or dangerous ATOD use.
- Sponsor or help with prevention services in your community that would benefit
your employees and their families.
- Include prevention/healthy lifestyle articles in your company materials.
- Consider formulating a corporate performance standard that encourages
community involvement to prevent ATOD problems as part of an ongoing commitment
to making the community a better place in which to live and do business.
- Appoint a corporate representative to serve on and support any ATOD
prevention-oriented programs or community partnerships in your area.
- Take a comprehensive approach to prevention efforts. Serve as a leader,
supporter, or active participant in other community-based efforts to prevent
ATOD use by youth.
- Encourage and support employees and their family members to ask for help for
an alcohol, tobacco, or other drug problem. Treatment is more cost-effective
than incurring potential safety problems and lost productivity due to
drug-related problems.
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