Alcohol-related work problems
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.20882/adicciones.526Keywords:
alcohol, work problems, consumption, prevention, enterprisesAbstract
Alcohol related problems in the working population are very important. Studies that have taken place in many countries show that above 70% of alcoholics and drug users work. Most of the drinking population are men aged 25 to 45. The prevalence of alcohol consumption in the working population exceeds that of the general population. A survey exclusively done on the working population states that 24% of workers consume a quantity of alcohol that is considered a potential risk to physical health. From the workers Health Services perspective, alcohol is seen as a major cause of concern: absenteeism, an increase of sick leave, accidents (25%), deterioration of performance and an increase of behavioural problems (between 15-40% of disciplinary sanctions are related to alcohol consumption) are the most prevalent alcohol related problems at work. The Occupational Health Services are, together with Primary Health Care Centres the basic key to the prevention of alcohol-related problems. All companies should have “Employee Assistance Programs” (EAP), led by external professionals and coordinated with the company’s medical services. The objective should be early identification of problems which can interfere with personal or working conditions of employees and their families maintaining the maximum confidentiality.References
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