Survey finds one in ten employees 'hung over' every month
Author: Kathryn Meir, Associate in the Employment Group
Posted: 2009-02-14

Chance would be a fine thing, but under the watchful gaze of the Partners here it is just not possible!!! In all seriousness, a recent survey by Norwich Union Healthcare reported that almost a third of employees have turned up to work with a hangover. 15% of those questioned also admitted to turning up drunk at work! One in ten said they had a hangover at least once a month. This is a potentially a health and safety issue in the workplace.

Thus employers need to be vigilant especially where employees operate machinery or drive vehicles both on site and in public as part of their job. Employers have a duty under health and safety legislation to provide a safe work environment both to employees and to the public. Therefore if you suspect that an employee is under the influence of alcohol (or other illegal substances) then employers should take steps. Hungover staff are likely to be sleepy and unable to concentrate - which could mean endangering themselves and others.

Your response should be based on the level of risk. Therefore if they operate machinery then you must have strict rules on turning up to work in a fit state. Some industries have strict legislative duties regarding fitness for work. If your staff drive as part of their job you should take action to prevent them doing so - it is widely reported that many breath test failures occur the morning after. Implementing a formal drug and alcohol policy is one solution or taking action under your disciplinary policy can be adequate.

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