Irish firms have been urged to consider US-style on-the-spot drug and alcohol tests after it emerged almost half of all employees have been drunk at work.
The potential move has been put forward by law consultancy firm Peninsula Ireland after its nationwide survey found that Irish attitudes to alcohol is impacting on the workplace.
Details revealed in the survey show that, of 1,353 employees interviewed in the Republic and the North between May and July, 595 (44%) admitted to occasions when they were drunk on the job.
In addition, out of 649 Irish employers interviewed during the same period, 499 (77%) said they have had to issue disciplinary proceedings over the matter.
Peninsula Ireland’s managing director, Alan Price, said the figures mean companies should consider introducing on-the-spot checks on employees they believe may be drunk at work.
The policies are in place in most major companies in the US. Mr Price added that while such tests may make for an awkward conversation, ignoring the issue cannot continue to be an option.
“Employees who attend work under the influence of alcohol are not just putting themselves at risk but also the safety of others,” said Mr Price.
“If you do have a drink, remember you may well put the safety of yourself, colleagues, friends, and customers at risk.
Source: Fiachra Ó Cionnaith, Irish Examiner, 08/08/14
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