Most governments have designed legislation to criminalize certain types of drug use. These drugs are often called “illegal drugs” but generally what is illegal is their unlicensed production, distribution, and possession. These drugs are also called “controlled substances”. Even for simple possession, legal punishment can be quite severe (including the death penalty in some countries). Laws vary across countries, and even within them, and have fluctuated widely throughout history.
Attempts by government-sponsored drug control policy to interdict drug supply and eliminate drug abuse have been largely unsuccessful. In spite of the huge efforts by the U.S., drug supply and purity has reached an all time high, with the vast majority of resources spent on interdiction and law enforcement instead of public health. In the United States, the number of nonviolent drug offenders in prison exceeds by 100,000 the total incarcerated population in the EU, despite the fact that the EU has 100 million more citizens.
Despite drug legislation (or perhaps because of it), large, organized criminal drug cartels operate worldwide. Advocates of decriminalization argue that drug prohibition makes drug dealing a lucrative business, leading to much of the associated criminal activity.
This document provides a framework in which employees can seek help in order to resolve any addictions rather than a framework under which they will automatically be punished. Alcohol and drug misuse is everyone’s concern. Not only does it damage the employee’s health, but it can cost employers through absenteeism and reduced productivity. It may also increase the risk of accidents.
Health and Safety at Work legislation ensures that employers are responsible for prohibiting drug and alcohol misuse. Turning a blind eye is no excuse.
Application and features
Provides a framework for all employees
Helps with health and safety compliance
Suitable for any sized business or organisation with employees
Informs staff of their rights and responsibilities regards drugs and alcohol
Aims to reduce the number of employees who abuse drugs and or alcohol
Up to date policy encourages non abuse at work
Down-to-earth common sense provisions to protect your business
Educates staff in best practice
Saves hours of individual explanation
Contents
Principles
Scope
Background
Current legislation
Policy
Guidelines
Consultation
Policy implementation
Enforcement
Review