Four in five workers admit to drinking at work, study reveals
The study, carried out by employment law consultancy Peninsula Ireland, uncovered a major trend of workplace drinking in Ireland, with 83% of employees surveyed having admitted to drinking alcohol at work at least once a week.
The survey showed that 68% of employers admitted to not having an alcohol policy in the workplace, and also found only 56% of Irish employers have disciplined staff because they have returned from their lunch under the influence of alcohol.
Managing director of Peninsula Ireland Alan Price said employers need to take a stringent approach to any evidence of workplace drinking.
“The liquid lunch is still present in the workplace, and this could spell trouble for both Irish employers and workers. Employers need to take a tough stance on their workers drinking during the working day and tackle the problem head-on,” he said.
Mr Price said employers should have clear codes of conduct concerning alcohol in the workplace.
“Employees who are under the influence of alcohol are not in a fit state to perform their job and this has an adverse effect on productivity.
“People are affected by alcohol in different ways so there shouldn’t be a tolerated level of drinking during the week.
“Irish employers should be making clear how they expect their employees to behave. Within the codes of conduct, there should be a clear indication of a company’s stance in regards to alcohol consumption and the consequences for any breaching of this code,” he said.
In the study, 1,021 employees and 472 employers were surveyed via e-mail and in person from a variety of industries throughout the period of March 2 to March 17.
According to Mr Price, there is also an onus on employees to understand the inappropriateness of drinking alcohol while at work.
Mr Price said the results of the study were particularly shocking considering the nature of some of the industries that took part in the survey.
“They (drinkers in the workplace) pose a potential danger not only to themselves but also to their colleagues, and the problem is especially shocking considering some of the industries that were questioned. It is potentially life-threatening in jobs where heavy machinery is used,” he said.
“Workers should be wary of their own behaviour and also consider the company’s reputation. Where alcohol policies are in place, employees run the risk of disciplinary procedures or even dismissal and so should consider these possibilities before having a drink at lunch.”
Mr Price said a strict approach from employers would help reduce the incidence of workplace drinking.
“Set out what standards you expect from your workforce and take a tough stance on anyone breaking the alcohol policy,” he advised.
“Showing yourself to be a tough disciplinarian in regards to alcohol should discourage employees from drinking during the working day.”
