Templates

Drugs and Alcohol Policy Template

This drugs and alcohol policy template outlines an organisation's commitment to maintaining a safe, productive workplace, setting clear expectations around substance use. Read more
Legislation GB-EAW
Topics Updated by a lawyer: 18 Dec 2024

What is this drugs and alcohol policy template?

Customisable drugs and alcohol policy template: This policy is designed to help prevent misuse, offer support to those in need, and maintain a culture of accountability within your business. Learn more about implementing a drugs and alcohol policy in our guide written by out legal experts.

Promoting a safe workplace: A robust drugs and alcohol policy helps ensure a safe, healthy, and productive environment for all employees without fear of substance misuse causing disruption. Misuse of drugs and alcohol can have serious consequences on performance, workplace safety, and well-being. This policy is designed to help prevent misuse, offer support to those in need, and create a safe working environment for all.

Importance of this drugs and alcohol policy template: Implementing a drugs and alcohol policy goes beyond creating a safe workplace - it ensures that everyone in your organisation understands the rules and procedures surrounding substance misuse. With this template, your organisation can outline expectations and consequences related to drug and alcohol use, set out the available support and also a process for reporting concerns.

What does this drugs and alcohol policy template include?

Content of this drugs and alcohol policy template: This drugs and alcohol policy template outlines and supports an organisation’s commitment to maintaining a safe and productive workplace free from the risks associated with substance misuse. It sets clear expectations for employees, explains the steps the company may take to address concerns, and provides guidance on accessing support. The drugs and alcohol policy template includes the option to include the following sections:

  • About the policy – this section explains the purpose of the policy and its role in creating a safe and supportive workplace.

  • Scope and application of this policy – this section details substances and behaviours prohibited within the workplace, helping employees understand clear boundaries.

  • Responsibilities under this policy – this section outlines the responsibilities of both the employer and employees in adhering to and enforcing the policy.

  • Company rules on drugs and alcohol – this section sets out the company’s expectations and rules regarding the possession, use, or influence of drugs and alcohol during work hours and at work-related events.

  • Informal action – this section describes the supportive steps the company may take to address concerns about substance misuse without initiating formal disciplinary proceedings.

  • Formal action – this section provides a framework for disciplinary measures in cases of serious or repeated breaches of the policy.

  • Concerns and reporting procedure – this section explains how employees can raise concerns about substance misuse, whether about themselves or colleagues, and the steps management will take to address them.

  • Confidentiality – this section guarantees that all matters related to substance misuse will be handled with sensitivity and confidentiality.

  • Support available – this section highlights the resources, counselling services, and treatment options offered by the company to help employees overcome substance-related challenges.

  • Searches – if applicable, this section outlines the company’s rights to conduct searches in the workplace where substance misuse is suspected, ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards.

Ensure your business is protected with clear guidelines by using Docue's drug and alcohol policy. Our legal experts have also curated this checklist to ensure you’ve covered the most important critical aspects of a drugs and alcohol policy template.

Why use this drugs and alcohol policy template?

Substance misuse can significantly impact workplace safety, productivity, and employee well-being. Implementing a clear and effective drugs and alcohol policy helps create a supportive and safe environment for everyone. This policy template is designed to help businesses take proactive steps in managing substance misuse while offering employees the necessary support.

  • Prevent substance misuse in the workplace: This drugs and alcohol policy template establishes clear rules and expectations to deter the misuse of drugs and alcohol during work hours or at work-related events, reducing risks to health, safety, and productivity.

  • Encourage early identification and intervention: With clear guidelines, the policy encourages early recognition of substance misuse and sets out steps for managers to address concerns constructively before issues escalate.

  • Provide a confidential reporting and action process: The policy includes a structured, confidential reporting procedure, ensuring that employees feel safe raising concerns, either about themselves or others, without fear of judgment or retaliation.

  • Offer support and guidance: The policy provides an optional framework for supporting employees with alcohol or drug-related illnesses, including sick leave for treatment, pausing disciplinary processes, and/or temporary adjustments to duties or hours.

Find out more about the benefits of implementing this drugs and alcohol policy template here.

Industry-specific requirements

Some industries, such as transportation, construction, and healthcare, have their own specific regulations regarding drug and alcohol use. Therefore, it’s crucial to review any industry-specific guidelines that apply to your workplace, as failing to comply with these requirements could lead to serious legal implications and safety issues.

What's covered by this drugs and alcohol policy template?

The policy applies to all employees and includes:

  • Drugs: Covers controlled substances, prescribed medications when misused, and psychoactive substances (legal highs).

  • Alcohol: Sets clear boundaries for alcohol consumption during work hours or at work-related events.

  • Prescription medications: This drugs and alcohol policy template states that employees must disclose any medication that may impair their ability to perform their duties safely.

Why use Docue’s drugs and alcohol policy template?

Created by lawyers: Docue’s drugs and alcohol policy template is designed by experienced lawyers to help you draft an effective policy for your business, alongside access to over 150 other professionally crafted templates to meet your legal and business needs.

Fully customisable: Easily tailor the template to reflect your company’s approach to managing drugs and alcohol in the workplace. You can even add custom sections and content to ensure the policy perfectly suits your needs!

Secure archive: After you have created your bespoke policy, you can store it (and any other documents) in your own secure storage vault in Docue Drive, Docue Drive.

Tags: drugs and alcohol policy template, drugs and alcohol policy template sample, drugs and alcohol policy template example

Legislation GB-EAW
Topics Updated by a lawyer: 18 Dec 2024

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