Safe Drinking & Drug Free

The misuse of alcohol and other drugs continues to be a serious and widespread issue for many individuals, their families, and communities. 

Alcohol remains the most commonly used drug, with 85% of New Zealanders (aged 15-65 years) reporting themselves to be consumers. As with other drugs, alcohol can negatively affect a number of important functions, including reaction rates, co-ordination, judgement, memory, and learning ability.  Alcohol and other drugs can also intensify emotions like anger and frustration, leading to violence and destructive actions. 

The facts

• Almost 48% of all those in full-time employment in New Zealand are binge drinkers.  Binge drinking and drug use (even if it occurs outside of working hours) can impact negatively in the workplace.
• Productivity lost through alcohol related absenteeism has been estimated to cost New Zealand businesses around $16 million every year.
• 15% of New Zealanders are current users of cannabis, and 8% of New Zealanders report using three or more illegal drugs during the last year.

WorkWell for Safe Drinking & Drug Free

Alcohol and other drugs have generally increased in their availability and it’s very likely that any organisation will have, amongst their workforce, a number of individuals who are using these substances in a manner that is hazardous to their health, and a risk to those working around them.

Hazardous use can bring about an increase in risk taking behaviour, contributing to a higher rate of falls, work accidents, car accidents, and violent actions.  People using alcohol and other drugs in this manner can also run into problems with finances and personal relationships, distracting them from work tasks and leading to reduced productivity and quality of work output.

Download the WorkWell for Safe Drinking & Drug Free Toolkit.  Inside you’ll find documents and resources to help you ensure:

• Your safe drinking and drug free programme is effective, sustainable and integrates with other WorkWell initiatives.
• The reasons for implementing a safe drinking and drug free programme have been justified and help gain management approval.
• Your success in developing a safe drinking and drug free policy and  plan of action.

Remember all workplaces undertaking WorkWell Accreditation are eligible to attend the FREE WorkWell Workshops or access FREE support from one of the WorkWell Advisors.