Policy

The Care Worker Agency & We Care is a responsible employer and takes its duties under the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 very seriously. This is why the company has set out this policy to ensure the health safety and welfare of our employees and to comply with legal duties. The provision of a safe place of work and safe systems of work for employees and customers as well as anyone else who may be affected by the company work activities is the overall aim.

The Care Worker Agency & We Care recognises that drinking before or after work could have potential health and safety implications for the company, and this policy sets out the company position on drinking alcohol in the workplace. Whilst the consumption of alcohol is an integral part of many employees’ lifestyle, its presence in the workplace is not desirable or appropriate as even small amounts can affect the work performance of an employee. More seriously, an employees’ safety may be compromised as well as the safety of others if alcohol is taken inappropriately whilst at work.

We recognise that the use of non-prescribed drugs have potential health and safety implications for the company. We are also aware that some employees may choose to take these drugs recreationally and not develop an addiction. Because of this, our policy states the company's position on the taking of any non-prescription drugs, possession of which is illegal under criminal law.

Many drugs, both prescription and recreational, have side effects that could affect an employees health and have a detrimental effect on their performance which could compromise their own safety and that of others. Side effects vary depending on the drug used; common side effects can include a loss of coordination, absent-mindedness and confusion.

The potential safety risks relating to the use of drugs and alcohol for all staff at work are obvious, but for those in a safety critical role, the impact on the safety and well being of our customers could be catastrophic.

The Care Worker Agency & We Care therefore takes the abuse of drugs and alcohol by employees during work very seriously. Employees must understand and acknowledge that they must not work when their performance may be hampered in any way by the use of alcohol or drugs (whether their use is legal or not).

Procedure

Employees must not be at work, providing care to our customers or travelling to work in a condition where their performance may be hampered by the use of alcoholic drink or drugs.  

No non-prescribed drugs are allowed onto, or consumed whilst on company premises at any time. All areas of the premises are included, both internal and external. The prohibition of non-prescribed (illegal) drugs extends to all activities carried out by staff while they are ‘at work’.

An employee who disregards this policy will be the subject of disciplinary action which may result in instant dismissal for Gross Misconduct.

Related policies:

Disciplinary

Reviewed April 2025 by Fay Townsend-Jackson