Alcohol or drug use can affect a person's judgment and reactions, increasing the risk of accidents and injury. The purpose of this policy is to ensure the safety of all employees, workers, and visitors by providing clear guidelines on the use and possession of alcohol and drugs, and to support individuals who report problems with alcohol or drug dependence.
Alcohol dependence is defined as: "The habitual consumption of intoxicating liquor by an employee, as a result of which the employee's performance of duties is impaired, attendance at work is interfered with, or the employee poses a threat to the safety of others."
Drug dependence is defined as: "When an employee habitually consumes drugs other than medicines prescribed by a GP, which impairs their ability to perform their duties, interferes with attendance at work, or endangers the safety of others."
• All employees and workers will be treated equally and consistently in accordance with this policy.
• Prohibitions on drugs and alcohol will be strictly enforced.
• Employees acknowledging a drug or alcohol issue will receive full support from their line manager.
• Employees with an alcohol or drug-related illness are encouraged to disclose this promptly to receive support and assistance.
• All discussions regarding drugs and alcohol will be treated as confidential.
• This policy adheres to relevant legislation, including the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 and the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.
• This policy applies to all employees, workers, and contractors.
• Misconduct related to drugs or alcohol will be managed in accordance with the disciplinary policy.
• Poor performance related to drugs or alcohol will be managed in accordance with the capability policy.
• Attendance issues or long-term illness due to drugs or alcohol will be handled under the capability and sickness absence policies.
Employees, workers, and contractors must not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol during working hours or while on company premises. This ensures health and safety, efficient business operations, and high-quality service delivery.
Specifically, no worker, contractor, or employee shall:
• Report or attempt to report for work unfit due to alcohol or drugs (legal or illegal);
• Possess alcohol or illegal substances at work;
• Supply illegal substances to others at work;
• Provide alcohol to others in the workplace, except as part of work duties (e.g., serving at a bar);
• Consume alcohol or illegal drugs while at work.
• Illegal drugs include but are not limited to heroin, cocaine, ecstasy, amphetamines, marijuana, and cannabis.
Employees must also:
• Be aware of potential negative effects from prescribed medications;
• Report any medication that could impair their ability to perform duties or endanger others to their line manager;
• Understand that violation of these rules may result in disciplinary action, including summary dismissal for gross misconduct.
• Be aware that agency employees or contractors may have their services terminated for violations.
• Report for work and while working must not show signs of being under the influence; if suspected, they may be sent home and searched in accordance with company policy.
Possession or dealing of illegal drugs on company premises will be reported to the police.
The Company reserves the right to report to the police any employee found to be:
• In possession of drugs;
• Trafficking drugs;
• Under the influence of drugs at work.
Employees who believe they have an issue with alcohol or drug misuse will receive advice and support from the company. Employees will be encouraged to seek assistance from their GP first.
With the employee's consent, an occupational health referral may be made. Employees may be required to refrain from work temporarily or perform restricted duties to ensure their safety and that of others. Additional unpaid leave may be granted to seek treatment or attend support groups.
The Company guarantees confidentiality for any employee seeking assistance with a drug or alcohol problem.
• Alcoholics Anonymous: Tel: 0845 769 7555, www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk
• ACAD (Advice and Counselling on Alcohol and Drugs): www.acad.org.uk
• FRANK: Tel: 0800 776 600 (24 hours), www.talktofrank.com
• NHS: www.nhs.uk
This policy has been approved by the organisation's Director and will be reviewed and updated annually.
“The staff provided consistently meet our site standards for presentation, conduct, and guest interaction. Communication has been clear, and any issues are addressed quickly and professionally.”
“UK Nationwide has been reliable and responsive, particularly during busy periods and short-notice cover. Their teams understand hotel standards and integrate smoothly with our day-to-day operations.”
“We’ve worked with UK Nationwide across multiple service areas, and the support has been dependable, well managed, and easy to work with. They take a practical, hands-on approach.”
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