FACTS

1. Most workplace accidents caused by substance use are not as high profile but can significantly impact a company’s operations, health, and finances.
2. Employees who abuse illicit substances are ten times more likely to miss work, negatively impacting not only themselves and their responsibilities but also jeopardizing others.
3. Increased absenteeism can make a company vulnerable to gaps in safety measures even if the employee with the substance use disorder is not present due to increased responsibility or lack of experience for other workers.
4. Problems Caused in the Workplace Due to Substance Abuse

• Sleeping on the job
• Hangover
• Poor decision making
• Loss of efficiency
• Theft
• Lower morale of co-workers
• Increased likelihood of having trouble with co-workers/supervisors or tasks
• Preoccupation with obtaining and using substances while at work, interfering with attention and concentration
• Illegal activities at work including selling illicit drugs to other employees.
• Higher turnover
• Training of new employees
• Disciplinary procedure

STATS

• According to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS), drug and alcohol abuse in the workplace is a serious issue that can lead to accidents, injuries, and reduced productivity. Here are some statistics on drug abuse at the workplace in Canada:
• Approximately 10% of Canadian workers reported using alcohol or drugs before or during work, according to a study conducted by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH).
• The construction industry has one of the highest rates of drug use among Canadian workers, with 20% of construction workers reporting using drugs or alcohol while on the job.
• A survey conducted by the Canadian Federation of Independent Business found that 39% of small business owners reported experiencing problems related to employee substance abuse, including accidents and absenteeism.
• A study conducted by the Workers’ Compensation Board of British Columbia found that workers who tested positive for drugs or alcohol were 3.6 times more likely to be involved in a workplace accident than those who tested negative.