Avoiding ATOD Problems (alcohol, tobacco and other drugs)

Avoiding Problems With Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drugs
Making Prevention Work

Actions for Employers

Announce that prevention of alcohol, tobacco, and other drug (ATOD) problems is a major corporate focus and that you expect everyone to take part in this collective effort.
Be aware of the potential risks that ATOD pose for any business or organization: increased absenteeism, tardiness, and use of sick leave and health services; higher insurance and Workers’ Compensation costs; more injuries, fatalities, and thefts; lower productivity and product quality; and reduced employee morale and higher turnover.
Be aware of the connection between alcohol and other drugs and sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV/AIDS. Using alcohol and other drugs can lead to unplanned and unprotected sex. Many drugs, including alcohol and tobacco products, also interfere with the body’s immune system.
Fully explain the benefits and procedures of your drug-free workplace program or policy to all employees.
Host alcohol-free events, emphasizing the company commitment to preventing injury or death associated with drinking and driving, especially around the holidays.
Provide food and beverages in company settings that encourage a healthy lifestyle.
Be a positive role model consistent with your messages to your employees. Do not engage in any illegal, unhealthy, or dangerous ATOD use.
Sponsor or help with prevention services in your community that would benefit your employees and their families.
Include prevention/healthy lifestyle articles in your company materials.
Consider formulating a corporate performance standard that encourages community involvement to prevent ATOD problems as part of an ongoing commitment to making the community a better place in which to live and do business.
Appoint a corporate representative to serve on and support any ATOD prevention-oriented programs or community partnerships in your area.
Take a comprehensive approach to prevention efforts. Serve as a leader, supporter, or active participant in other community-based efforts to prevent ATOD use by youth.
Encourage and support employees and their family members to ask for help for an alcohol, tobacco, or other drug problem. Treatment is more cost-effective than incurring potential safety problems and lost productivity due to drug-related problems.

Avoiding ATOD Problems (alcohol, tobacco and other drugs)

Avoiding Problems With Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drugs Making Prevention Work

Actions for Employers

Avoiding Problems With Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drugs
Making Prevention Work