According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), more than 14 million U.S. adults live with alcohol use disorder, and its impact often reaches beyond personal health into the workplace. From reduced productivity to serious safety risks, alcohol misuse can disrupt the well-being of teams and organizations alike. At MedPhysicals Plus, we understand how important it is for employers to stay aware and take action.
This National Alcohol Awareness Month, we’re highlighting how businesses can identify the signs of alcohol misuse, understand the risks involved, and create workplace policies that support a healthier and more productive environment.
The Hidden Impact of Alcohol in the Workplace
Alcohol misuse in the workplace is often less obvious than people expect. It may not involve visible intoxication but instead show up as chronic tardiness, poor decision-making, or interpersonal issues. These patterns can be easy to overlook until they start affecting performance or safety.
Substance use in the workplace costs U.S. employers over $80 billion annually, with alcohol being a leading contributor. The consequences are not limited to productivity loss. They can include:
- Increased workplace accidents and injuries
- Higher rates of absenteeism and sick days
- Lower team morale and strained working relationships
- Legal liability and regulatory complications
- Turnover and training costs for replacement staff
Even in companies with a strong safety culture, alcohol-related issues can quietly erode performance and team dynamics over time. That’s why prevention and early detection matter.
Recognizing the Signs: What Employers Should Watch For
Early detection is key. Employers and managers should stay alert for behavioral and physical red flags, including:
- Erratic behavior, irritability, or isolation
- Consistent tardiness or sudden drops in performance
- Smelling of alcohol, slurred speech, or coordination issues
If multiple signs appear over time, it’s important to document concerns and follow your company’s response protocol. Early action makes a difference.
Proactive Measures: Building a Safer Workplace
Employers can take several important steps to reduce risk and promote wellness:
1. Establish a Clear Alcohol Policy
Set expectations, define consequences, and communicate policies clearly. Consistency and fairness are crucial.
2. Offer Education and Training
Train managers to recognize signs of misuse and respond appropriately. Awareness saves lives and livelihoods.
3. Use Reliable Testing Methods
Routine alcohol testing can help maintain workplace safety—especially in regulated or safety-sensitive industries.
4. Promote Confidential Support Services
Encourage employees to seek help through EAPs or external counseling. Support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Breath-Alcohol Testing for Workplace Safety and Compliance
At MedPhysicals Plus, we provide Breath-Alcohol Testing to help employers maintain a safe and compliant workplace. Our testing is quick, reliable, and meets DOT standards for safety-sensitive positions.
Aside from alcohol testing, we also offer a range of services designed to keep your workforce healthy, safe, and compliant:
- Employee Drug Testing – from pre-employment to random and return-to-duty testing, we help ensure a drug-free workplace.
- Occupational Health Services – including physicals, health screenings, wellness exams, and more, tailored to the needs of your industry.
Whether you’re in construction, transportation, healthcare, or another high-risk field, our team is ready to support your safety program. These services are part of our Third-Party Administrator (TPA) services, designed to help businesses meet their compliance needs. Please reach out to us at (907) 561-7587 if you have any questions or need assistance.