The role of breathalyser testing in the workplace

Alcohol abuse in the workplace poses a significant threat to safety, productivity, and overall comp... 

Alcohol abuse in the workplace poses a significant threat to safety, productivity, and overall company morale. Rhys Evans, Managing Director at ALCO-Safe says, often, the reason companies want to start testing is because they have had an incident or noticed employees arriving at work possibly intoxicated.

“Although employers may suspect there’s an issue with alcohol abuse, they generally don't grasp the full extent of the problem until testing begins. In large companies, the number of positive results is often higher than expected,” Evans says, adding that when repeat offenders are identified, this sometimes leads to a high number of dismissals. He says the issue is more prevalent than many businesses realise as there are high rates of alcohol abuse among the South African population.

Implementing breathalyser testing programmes can effectively mitigate the risks this raises, creating a safer and more efficient work environment. By identifying and addressing alcohol-related issues proactively, businesses can reduce the likelihood of accidents, injuries, and associated legal liabilities. Over time, this leads to substantial cost savings.

The cost of alcohol-related incidents

The financial consequences of alcohol-related workplace incidents can be substantial. Accidents, injuries, and property damage result in direct costs and lead to increased insurance premiums, lost productivity, and potential legal battles. With 20% to 25% of injuries in the workplace reportedly involving employees under the influence of alcohol, it’s clear that this should be an area of concern for businesses. Introducing breathalyser testing programmes offers a first step towards addressing the issue and reducing the risk of related incidents and the associated costs.

Far reaching benefits

Beyond the financial benefits of implementing breathalyser testing in the workplace, further benefits are seen in a reduced number of workplace accidents, enhanced productivity, and a positive work environment, contributing to a company's overall success and wellbeing.

Regular testing helps companies identify employees who may be under the influence before they cause accidents, significantly reducing the risk of workplace injuries. As well as preventing unnecessary medical expenses and potentially lost wages, this creates a safer and more secure environment for all employees.

The workplace also becomes more productive. Alcohol abuse can lead to increased absenteeism, affecting productivity and morale. By addressing alcohol-related issues, businesses can improve employee attendance and create a more focused and productive work environment. This in turn boosts morale, as a workplace free from the negative impacts of alcohol abuse promotes increased job satisfaction and higher productivity.

Furthermore, breathalyser testing can contribute to a positive company image, demonstrating that the company prioritises the safety and wellbeing of employees. This is also valued by stakeholders more widely, including customers, investors, and the community. And as a reflection of a company's ethical commitment to its workforce, it makes it easier to attract and retain top talent.

Fair and transparent workplace policy

From a legal perspective, breathalyser testing is one of the most effective means to mitigate risk. Where alcohol-related incidents can result in costly legal battles, breathalyser testing programmes provide evidence of a company's commitment to safety, countering the risk of legal liabilities and associated costs.

The successful implementation of breathalyser testing programmes depends substantially on the company having in place a well-defined and transparent policy on alcohol consumption in the workplace. The policy should clearly outline the company's expectations regarding alcohol use, the consequences of violating these expectations, and the procedures for conducting alcohol testing.

A fair and transparent policy helps to promote a culture of safety, sending a clear message to employees that the company values their safety and wellbeing. A well-defined policy helps to ensure that alcohol testing is conducted fairly and consistently across the organisation and supports due process by outlining the procedures for conducting tests, challenging results, and addressing any disciplinary actions.

Invest in safety today

Evans says to ensure accurate and reliable testing results, it is essential to invest in high-quality breathalyser equipment and consult with experienced providers. They can assist in developing effective testing policies, training employees, and ensuring compliance with the relevant regulations.

Although the initial investment in breathalyser equipment and related services may seem costly, the long-term benefits in terms of cost savings and improved safety can far outweigh the upfront expenses.

Implementing breathalyser testing programmes in the workplace is a strategic decision that can yield significant benefits.