Module 6: Substance Abuse - Introduction

INTRODUCTION:

Substance abuse is costing South African businesses millions of Rands annually through lost productivity, increased health care costs and wasted human potential.

COSTS OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE TO THE EMPLOYER:

Substance abuse can be quantified in terms of costs incurred by the employer. The following information is derived from research carried out in the United States:

• Productivity: 33% less productive.
• Sick leave and late reporting for work: 10 times more likely to miss work.
• Increased workplace crime: Commission of theft and/or fraud.
• Accidents or errors:- 3.6 times more likely to be involved in on-the-job accidents.
• WCA, insurance and medical aid claims- 5 times more likely to file WCA claims, and incur 3 times higher health costs.
• Increase in staff turnover.
• Decrease in staff morale.
• Increased risk of HIV infection: Mostly due to the association between substance abuse and high risk sexual behaviour while under the influence.

A South African example:

At one industrial site:

• 10 % employees had more than 0.08% blood alcohol,
• 30 % employees were below the 0.08% blood alcohol limit.

This suggests that about 40% of the employees were intoxicated to some extent.

After random urine testing was introduced:

• only 4 % employees were found to be intoxicated to some extent.
• Within 6 months:
  disabling injuries decreased by 52.3%, and,
  non-disabling injuries decreased by 44.6%.

It is estimated that 20-40% of industrial accidents in South Africa are alcohol related.