Alcohol in the workplace: a repressed problem
Drinking in secret - alcohol in the workplace is hidden and not addressed enough. Even by companies. As part of the annual Alcohol Problems Action Day on May 23, the Blue Cross is drawing attention to this with various campaigns in Switzerland.
"A glass or two of alcohol in the morning to calm the shakes. Without it, I would never have hit the test tube with the pipette," says Ms. Z., describing how she deals with alcohol at work. Those affected hide their drinking and the alcohol at work, although it is omnipresent for them and in many cases has to be readily available.
Alcohol in the workplace: an often suppressed problem
However, more and more companies are recognizing the need to address this issue and are integrating the handling of alcohol and other addictive substances into their HR policy. Sensitized employees make a significant contribution to the prevention of alcohol problems. Effective alcohol prevention on the part of employers is an investment in healthy and satisfied employees. This can prevent costly absences from work, accidents in the workplace and quality defects in goods and services. The Blue Cross supports companies preventively with the program "Alcohol and work"to be prepared for everyday working life (see below). Over 70% of the companies report a positive cost-benefit balance.
Recognizing and dealing with alcohol problems
This week, the Blue Cross is showing tips on all channels on how to hide alcohol in the workplace, the perspective of alcoholics in the work environment and tips for employees on how to react sensitively. This information helps colleagues and managers to take a closer look and recognize alcohol problems. It is important to seek professional help quickly if you suspect a problem.
Activities on the national day of action, Thursday, May 23
The Blue Cross would like to draw attention to alcohol in the workplace. Regional Blue Cross organizations are active at the following locations:
- Hotline for questions about "Alcohol in the workplace"
Available from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on 044 860 64 00. - Stand campaign at the Inselspital Bern
From 10 am - 3 pm. For information, please contact Michael Eggen on 031 311 11 56. - Stand campaign at Waisenhausplatz in Thun, Mühlibrücke side
With a concert by Nils Burri from 4 - 6:30 pm. For information, please contact Sarah Schulz on 033 222 01 77 or send an e-mail to s.schulz@blaueskreuzbern.ch.
The Blue Cross recommends an open and preventative approach to the topic of alcohol in the workplace in order to promote a healthy and productive working environment.
What one affected person recommends
"That's why I advise all bosses - and all other people too: Have courage, raise the issue, offer a hand! If you don't know how and need support yourself, you should get help, e.g. from the Blue Cross, which also advises companies and relatives," concludes Ms. Z. The whole story at www.blaueskreuz.ch.
Alcohol and work - offers from the Blue Cross
Do I have to react if I suspect addiction problems and if so, how do I proceed correctly? What can I do if performance is still good but the working atmosphere is severely strained? How can I approach an employee about a possible addiction problem? Do I have to terminate the employment relationship if alcohol or other addictive substances are a problem? And is it my responsibility as a manager to interfere in the lives of employees? - The Blue Cross provides competent help in these difficult management situations and offers companies professional advice and support:
- Presentations, training courses and workshops for management & employees
- Coaching and Consultations of managers and HR managers
- a tailor-made solution for the company Addiction prevention concept.
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