Module 6: Substance Abuse - Introduction |
OBJECTIVES |
By the end of this module, you should:
- appreciate the cost to the employer of substance abuse;
- know the definitions of substance use, abuse, and dependence;
- recognise the signs and symptoms of substance use, abuse, and dependence;
- know the components of a substance abuse programme for the workplace.
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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.
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