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Workplace Cheer Turns Sour: UK Sees Rise in Substance Misuse
21 Nov, 2025
Summary
- One in three UK workers witnessed substance use during work hours.
- Forty percent of industrial accidents link to alcohol or drug use.
- Annual cost of impairment in UK workplaces reaches £7.3 billion.
UK workplaces are being alerted to the growing problem of alcohol and drug misuse, especially as festive celebrations approach. A recent guide reveals that one in three employees have either witnessed or admitted to substance use during working hours. This impairment significantly increases the risk of accidents, with 40% of industrial incidents attributed to alcohol or drugs.
The economic toll is substantial, with workplace impairment costing the UK economy an estimated £7.3 billion annually. Prescription medications also contribute to impaired judgment and reaction times, posing critical safety concerns for those in safety-critical roles or operating heavy vehicles.
To combat this issue, the guide advocates for a multi-faceted approach including education, consent-based testing, and rehabilitation support. Advanced screening technologies like saliva and breath tests are available, with a strong backing from workers who support testing to maintain a safe environment.
