Policy brief on the status of alcohol and drug abuse among employees in the public sector workplace in Kenya

Abstract

Drug and alcohol impacts in the workplace is an emerging issue that has been faced by many employers. Many people with alcohol and drug abuse problems are in employment and cost workplaces billions in lost productivity. In addition to higher absenteeism and lower job performance, substance abuse also exposes employers to greater health care costs for workplace related injuries and illnesses. Contrary to negative and stereotyped images, majority of persons with substance use problems are gainfully employed, equating to millions of people in the workforce with problematic alcohol or drug use. The use of alcohol and other drugs becomes an occupational health and safety issue if a person’s ability to exercise judgment, coordination, motor control, concentration and alertness is affected at the workplace, leading to an increased risk of injury or illness. Employees affected by alcohol or other drugs may present a hazard in the workplace, causing injury to themselves and others. Co-workers may also be placed in difficult situations, expected to cover for unsafe work practices or faced with reporting a fellow employee. Workplace alcohol policies can therefore provide a framework for managing all alcohol related issues and should be seen as being central to the principles of a responsible, supportive and caring organization. It is important, however, that the alcohol policy links with other relevant human resources, health and safety policies. This survey therefore sought to determine the status of alcohol and drug abuse (ADA) among employees in the public sector workplace in Kenya. Specifically, to determine: theprevalence of alcohol and drug abuse among employees in the public sector workplace in Kenya the effects of alcohol and drug abuse among employees in the public sector workplace in Kenya factors that influence alcohol and drug abuse among employees in the public sector workplace in Kenya the status of ADA mainstreaming in the public sector workplace in Kenya and employee perceptions on the support of alcohol and drug abuse programs in the public sector workplace in Kenya.