The Impact of Psychoactive Substances on Work: The Key Figures Managers and HR Need to Know
A recent survey highlights the impact of psychoactive substances on the workplace. Conducted among executives, HR managers and staff representatives, this study provides crucial data.
The Substances in Question:
- Alcohol : The most widely cited product, mentioned by a majority of respondents.
- Tobacco : The second most consumed product in the professional world.
- Cannabis (THC) : Consumed by 10% of employees according to managers and HR managers.
The Consequences on Work:
- Efficiency and Quality of Work : 64% of managers mention a decrease in efficiency at work due to alcohol, and 63% speak of a decrease in the quality of work.
- Health and Safety : 56% of managers are concerned about the risks of accidents or occupational illnesses.
- Absenteeism and Lateness : 56% of managers report problems with absenteeism and lateness.
Current solutions:
- Individual Approach : 85% of executives and HR managers use individual solutions.
- Dialogue with Employees : 69% favor seeking dialogue with the employee.
- Use of the Occupational Physician : 65% use the occupational physician, this figure rises to 71% in the public sector.
Individual and collective measures: a caring and educational framework
The study reveals that the measures taken to manage the consumption of psychoactive substances in the workplace combine individual (85%) and collective (82%) approaches. These strategies, although effective, can be enriched by appropriate training and support initiatives.
Individual measures
Drug testing allows for a targeted and respectful approach, targeting employees who show signs of drug use. This approach aims to address the situation discreetly, without stigma. It can include:
- Targeted screenings to identify and support affected employees.
- A caring dialogue , based on objective evidence, to help employees understand the impact of their consumption on their safety and performance.
Collective measures
Collective screening campaigns, such as random checks, play a key role in deterrence and prevention. They promote a safer and more productive work environment by establishing a culture of shared responsibility. These actions can be reinforced by training and specific supervision:
- Training of supervisors and HR staff to recognize risky behaviors and intervene effectively.
- Implementation of benevolent campaigns , focused on awareness and education, rather than repression.
- Comprehensive support for teams , including prevention actions, regular screenings and personalized monitoring.
AMA Prevention expertise
In addition, we offer tailor-made training for companies and associations:
- Train teams to detect suspicious behavior , while avoiding hasty judgments or discrimination.
- Implement benevolent screening campaigns , integrating reliable and non-invasive saliva and urine tests.
- Raise awareness of the key role of dialogue in effectively supporting employees faced with consumption issues.
Public and private sector: different approaches and the role of screening tests
Public sector:
In the public sector, 71% of organizations call on the occupational physician to manage issues related to the consumption of psychoactive substances. Collective and preventive actions are favored in 88% of cases , demonstrating a global approach focused on raising awareness and protecting employees.
Private sector:
In the private sector, 58% of companies contact the occupational physician , but they adopt disciplinary measures more frequently ( 49% compared to 29% in the public sector ). This highlights the need to implement benevolent prevention campaigns, while strengthening dialogue with employees to address these issues constructively.
Differences between saliva screening and urine screening: a question of context and practice
Urine screening:- Invasive : This type of testing involves more intrusive sample collection, which may pose comfort and respect issues for the employee.
- Past use: It can detect substances consumed several days or even weeks previously, without indicating whether the employee is currently under the influence at work.
- Limited practice: In companies, urine screening must be carried out by the occupational physician
Saliva screening:
- Non-invasive : This test is simple and quick and involves taking a saliva sample, making it more acceptable to employees.
- Recent Consumption: It is particularly useful in detecting recent consumption, determining whether the employee is under the influence of a narcotic during working hours.
- Practicality: Saliva testing can be performed by management or HR staff, without the need for specific medical training. However, it is imperative that this practice is clearly written into the company charter and communicated to employees to ensure transparency and legal compliance.
Towards a balanced approach
Whether in the public or private sector, the choice of the type of screening must take into account the company's objectives (prevention or reaction) and legal constraints. While urine screening offers an extensive view of past consumption, saliva screening is a more immediate solution and is adapted to real-time risk management.
By integrating these tools into a clear regulatory framework, accompanied by preventive measures and constructive dialogue, companies can create a safer and more productive working environment, while respecting the dignity and rights of employees.
Towards more effective prevention: why train and screen?
Screening tests, combined with targeted and caring training, allow us to go beyond simple monitoring. They are part of a global preventive strategy, providing:
- Reliable and rapid detection tools, essential for risky environments.
- A framework conducive to dialogue, which helps prevent conflicts and promotes the reintegration of the employees concerned.
- A reduction in accidents related to psychoactive substances, thus ensuring a safer and healthier working environment.
Conclusion
In a context where psychoactive substances represent a major issue in the workplace, it is essential to combine screening, dialogue and training. At AMA Prevention, we are committed to supporting companies in this process, by offering adapted, caring and effective solutions to protect both employees and their work environment.
Source :
Survey on the impact of psychoactive substance consumption on workPublished by: French Observatory for Drugs and Drug Addiction (OFDT)
