JEP/WKPP Newsletter FEB 2018

Operations & Maintenance

WKPP O&M DEPT. ACHIEVES ANOTHER GREAT SAVE – AIR LEAK ISOLATION On February 23, 2018, Shift Supervisor Adrian Bloomfield reported hearing a high pitched sound in the compressor room at WKPP. Suspecting a possible air leak, Adrian decided to investigate, as such leak would disrupt the air supply and subsequently the entire plant.

Immediately, Adrian examined the starting air screen on the WOIS. It was there he noticed the rapid decrease in starting and control air pressure and, therefore, contacted the Control Room Operator (Kayton Anderson). Attempting to pinpoint the leak,

While Adrian isolated the air receivers, Judane and

Adrian realized that it was so heavy, therefore, difficult to locate

Nashawn retrieved a hose from the stores as well as a big

immediately.

adjustable wrench. Judane also went for a pipe wrench from his toolbox while Adrian went to the operation tool

After detecting the leak, which was present at starting air

pan for a channel lock. With all the necessary tools and

compressor discharge, Adrian tried to isolate it, however,

materials on hand, Nashawn and Adrian were able to

futile unless the entire system was offline (i.e., compressors

remove and replace the hose after the plant technicians on

suspended).

duty, Mr. Hendricks and Mr. Smith, stopped the starting air system.

Determined to solve the problem, Adrian proceeded to the control room and notified the Mechanical Technicians (Judane

After successfully changing the hose the system returned

Finlay and Nashawn James) on duty. Judane drove to the

to normality. Exceptional teamwork and dedication

compressor room to inspect the hose while Adrian contacted

from the WKPP Operations and Maintenance

the Storekeeper (Christopher Brown) to obtain a new hose.

Department. Together, the technicians and

Kayton and Adrian then instructed the Plant Technicians on duty

operators were able to isolate and fix a leak

(Oshane Hendricks and Paul Smith) to isolate the inlet to one

which would have been detrimental to the plant.

start air receiver to maintain the engines’ starting and control air.

2

Issue 14

Corporate Social Responsibility

- JEP & WKPP

JEP AND WKPP DONATE PERSONAL CARE PACKAGES TO WALKER’S PLACE OF SAFETY

JEP & WKPP Events

“...we constantly recognize the importance of contributing to the advancement of the nation and our youth.”

On January 15, 2018, a fire claimed the lives of two children and destroyed the Walker’s Place of Safety which was home to twenty-nine other boys and girls.

Walker’s Place of Safety served as a transitional residence for children, generally up to 12 years old, who have been abandoned or removed from their homes because of unstable conditions.

The institution provided food and shelter, along with access to educational services and health care.

Following the destruction of the home,

and as good corporate citizens, we

On February 9, 2018, employees

the Child Development Agency (CDA)

constantly recognize the importance of

dedicated time to organizing and

embarked on a nationwide campaign to

contributing to the advancement of the

packaging clothing, shoes and toiletries

appeal to persons and organizations; to

nation and our youth.

they donated; and other personal care items contributed by both companies.

assist with providing personal items for As part of our CSR Portfolio and to

Packages were then delivered to the

support the efforts of the CDA, JEP and

Child Development Agency by JEP and

At JEP and WKPP our zeal for giving

WKPP staff worked tirelessly to prepare

WKPP representatives.

back to those in need is monumental;

personal care packages for the children.

the affected children.

February 2018

3

WKPP

ENCOURAGES GOOD BEHAVIOUR AMONG YOUTH THROUGH ANNUAL SUPPORT FOR THE

RE-BIRTH PROJECT

“My Future...My Choices” Behavioural issues are one of the many

The Re-birth Project supports

Last year, our President and CEO,

concerns among children in today’s

twenty children between 13-16

Wayne McKenzie dedicated a few hours

society. Melody Cammock, the Project

years old, who have the potential

to encourage the youngsters to focus on

Developer of the Re-birth Initiative,

to succeed but not given the

school and work as well as their attitude

submitted a proposal with the objective

opportunity to progress due to

and behavioural improvements. This

to curtail behavioural problems among

disciplinary issues.

year’s staging will be executed under the

our youth.

4

Issue 14

theme, “My Future...My Choices”.

WKPP UPHOLDS

COMMITMENT TO

SUPPORT ITS NEIGHBOURS

BLOCK D Recent statistics indicate that the

Annually, Desmond McKenzie, CD, MP.,

Western Kingston community is home

hosts an Easter treat as a way to reduce

to over sixteen thousand residents.

violence and to provide meals for over

Overpopulation is one of the multiple

three thousand shut-ins.

issues faced by these residents.

Violence, low literacy rates and

WKPP donates to this initiative yearly to

unemployment are also matters to

illustrate our commitment towards the

consider when creating sustainable

well-being of our neighbours.

programmes for impactful growth.

February 2018

5

Corporate Social Responsibility

JEP CONTINUES TO PRESERVE THE

MONTEGO BAY

MARINE PARK Frustrated by improper garbage disposal and perpetual overfishing; the Executive Director of the Montego Bay Marine Park, Hugh Shim has articulated grave concern regarding the preservation of marine life in the Montego Bay area. Since 1997, JEP has been assisting with remedying these issues through quarterly contributions that support the awareness campaigns, patrolling and monitoring of the Park. In February, JEP’s President and CEO Wayne McKenzie, presented Mr. Shim with a cheque for USD 1,700, JEP’s first quarterly the Montego Bay

JEP Events

Marine Park.

SeaBin is an electric

SEABIN PROJECT PROVIDES UPSTREAM SOLUTIONS FOR CLEANER MARINAS.

contribution to UPSTREAM SOLUTIONS FOR CLEANER OCEANS

UPSTREAM SOLUTIONS FOR CLEANER OCEANS

w w w. se a bi n proj e c t . c om

w w w. s eab i np ro j ect. co m

Recently, JEP was invited by Wartsila

EACH SEABIN HAS THE CAPACITY TO CATCH 1/2 TON OF DEBRIS PER YEAR FOR LESS THAN $1 A DAY.

the ocean.

The SeaBin we

innovative creations,

believe will reduce

the SeaBin; which

the number of plastic

was manufactured

bottles blanketing the

mainly to reduce the

SEABIN V5 The V5 Seabin unit is a floating debris interception device designed to be installed in the water of marinas, yacht clubs, ports and any water body with a calm environment and services available.

CLEANER MARINAS CLEANER OCEANS

FIND OUT MORE AT

WWW.SEABINPROJECT.COM

SEABIN V5

CLEANER MARINAS CLEANER OCEANS

We live in a world where the awareness of the ocean plastics problem is fast growing, and the value of a sustainable and socially responsible business model is critical to maintain a competitive edge.

Issue 14

ecosystem to thrive in Montego Bay. Mr. McKenzie made this revelation during the board meeting

information prior the installation of these bins.

We value our partners and appreciate that

SEABINS MOST CAUGHT ITEMS CIGARETTE BUTTS PLASTIC PARTICLES FOOD WRAPPERS

6

allowing the underwater

now awaiting pertinent

The catch bag can hold up to 20Kgs of debris, it is advised to check the Seabins twice per day, clean regularly and change the catch bag as needed.

The Seabin is powered by a small 500W submersible water pump underneath the Seabin which uses either 110V or 220V. Energy consumption is less than $1 a day. The water pump may be run by clean power options such as solar, wind, wave or turbine depending on the location, current technology and services available.

ocean floor, thereby,

held in February and is

The Seabin is installed in a specific “Debris problem area” in the marina on a floating dock.

In the near future a percentage of oil will be captured with simple oil absorption technology customed for the Seabins catch bag.

retrieve and store up to and other debris from

one of their most

in our oceans. The

retains the capacity to 500 kg of plastic bottles

to partner on

amount of garbage

garbage system that

their goals align with

8.1

MILION TONS of waste enters our oceans every year

1/2 TON

of debris can be caught by each Seabin per year

our vision of creating a sustainable planet for generations to come!

JEP SUPPORTS THE JAMAICA FIRE BRIGADE AND ITS FIRE PREVENTION EFFORTS

To reduce the number of disasters, the

to raise awareness in their home,

JEP has always supported the Jamaica

Fire Prevention arm of the Jamaica Fire

school and community to build a safer

Fire Brigade and its initiatives. Last

Brigade has engaged the students at

Jamaica.

month the company, therefore,

the primary level; to expose them to

contributed funds to purchase uniforms

safe practices with the hope of curbing

In February, members of the Club

lost lives and damage to property

captured the hearts of many Jamaicans

caused by fire and natural disasters.

through their donation to the Walker’s

for the wardens.

Place of Safety, a state-run facility that Each member of the newly dubbed,

provides shelter for children. The facility

Fire Wardens Club, has to pledge

was completely decimated by a fire, earlier this year.

February 2018

7

JEP/WKPP 2018 Committees

CSR COMMITTEE The CSR Committee is an arm of

The purpose of the committee is:

Annually, new representatives

CACAO JEP that is devoted to the

1. To engage our communities by

are recruited to execute CSR

well-being of our communities. It is a

being socially responsible citizens

events. Let us, therefore, extend

voluntary group formed on the basis

while promoting a culture of integrity,

a warm welcome to the 2018 CSR

compassion and discipline.

members!

of encouraging staff participation,

2. To maintain our trajectory as leading

enhancing brand exposure as well

Akeem Sparks

as ensuring good governance of the

corporate citizens and to enhance

Neville McBean

portfolio.

our reputational value by supporting

Alesha Foster

environmentally conscious

Diedre Roberts

programmes.

Michelle Rhone Roger Williams

SOCIAL & WELFARE COMMITTEE The executive body of the

The committees’ objective is to:

JEP Committee Members

Social & Welfare committee

»»

Motivate and empower staff.

Marcus Biggs-Chairperson/Plant Technician

»»

Create a platform where staff can voice

Kerry-Ann Johnson-Co-Chairperson/H.R

governs the overall activities of the committee. The helm, our President and CEO Wayne McKenzie, oversees the two local arms JEP and WKPP which

their opinions. »»

Use social intervention to create a work life balance through the planning of events and activities for staff.

represent each plant on the

Dempster Aitcheson-Stores Clerk/Member Dennis Halstead-Technical Services/Member Alesha Foster-Plant Technician/Member Emelio Durrant-Safety Officer/Member Dwayne Downer-Plant Technician/Member

ground. Each arm consists

WKPP Committee Members

of seven members, with

Patrice Howell-Chairperson/Administrative

Annual Events: Sigma, Wellness Day,

at least one member

Assistant

Sports Day, Family Funday, Staff Medicals,

from each JEP/WKPP

Keisha Deleon-Co-Chairperson/H.R Officer

Departmental Lymes, Christmas Luncheon and

department. The purpose

Jermaine Scott-Member/Acting I.E Supervisor

Christmas Party.

of this committee is to cater

Suneil Webb-Member/Mechanical Technician

to the well-being of staff;

Jason Cameron-Member/Plant Technician

create an outlet for them to

Kerene Crawford-Member/Accounts

share their views as well as

Receivables

discuss staff benefits and

Ricardo Kerr-Member/Mechanical Technician

effect change.

8

Specialist

Issue 14

SAFETY COMMITTEE JEP WKPP The WKPP Safety committee consists of persons from JEP’s safety committee comprises

JEP committee members:

all departments within the

employees, contractors and

Sigree Stewart-(Chairman/EHS Specialist)

company.

management representatives that are

Emelio Durrant-Safety Officer

responsible for guiding the safety and

George Palmer-Production Manager (Act.)

At WKPP, safety is our #1

well-being of staff and the continued

Conrad Miller-Technical Service Manager (Act.)

priority it was, therefore, crucial

success of the organization. This

Suzette McLeod-Contractor Principal Rep

to implement and sustain a

medium was implemented to improve

Eric Batticks-Maintenance Manager

safety committee to secure staff

safety behaviour and performance in

Vincent Barnes-Operations Manager (Act)

and property. The committee

the workplace and encourage workers

Bruce Comrie-Contractor Principal Rep

includes representatives from

to support the organization’s safety

Lloyd Peak-EHS Manager

purchasing, HR, operations/

programme.

Kerry-Ann Johnson-HR Specialist

maintenance as well as

Jermaine Smith-Safety Monitor

managers and supervisors from

The purpose of the safety committee

Raj Turner-Warehouse Supervisor

all departments. The committee

is to provide an open forum to discuss

Patrick Adams-Mechanical Engineer

members participate in field

recent accidents, near misses, corrective

Tameka Allen-Safety Monitor

inspections, investigations and

actions, improvements and future

Cecil Clarke-Service Engineer

act as advocates for general

recommendations.

Larry Harrison-Safety Monitor

plant awareness in their

Marlon Thomas-Safety Monitor

respective areas.

2018 Safety Goals

Anthony Perry-Mechanical Supervisor – DB2

»»

To achieve Zero Total Recordable

Angelo Scott-Safety Monitor

The committee objectives

Incident Rate in 2018

Lloyd Miller-Reliability Technician

are:

Develop Hazard Communications

Michelle Rhone-Recording Secretary

1. To take WKPP across the

»»

(GHS) »»

Develop Occupational Health & Safety Policies

»»

Develop and implement Contractor Occupational Health & Safety Programme

»»

Increase and maintain safety awareness through weekly training and face to face safety talks

»»

--

Conduct inspections and audits

--

Implement safety incentives

Increase the rate of risk analyzation & problem solving

1000 days worked without a Lost Time Accident (LTA) on June 27, 2018 2. Achieve 0 LTA for 2018 3. Strengthen our Risk Assessment Programme for high risk jobs and all jobs by extension 4. Improve the safety knowledge across the workforce through training and knowledge sharing, using statistics and realistic examples/experience.

February 2018

9

Employee Recognitions - JEP

Human Resources

CECIL CLARKE FROM ASSISTANT SERVICE ENGINEER TO SERVICE ENGINEER!

GARRON PALMER, JEP MECHANICAL TECHNICIAN

MEDALLED IN NATIONAL BADMINTON TOURNAMENT “Growing up, I always had a love for sports. Playing sports for the first time was not hard for me; it came naturally to me. I, therefore, knew I would continue to enjoy and excel in sports throughout my life,” said Garron Palmer, Mechanical Technician at JEP. Garron stated that playing badminton for the first time, however, did not come naturally to him; but his friends, who played the sport as well encouraged him not to give up.

“The support from my friends motivated me to practice

JEP is pleased to formally announce the promotion

playing regularly until, eventually, I fell in love with it, “ Garron

of Cecil Clarke to the position of Service Engineer,

added.

effective as of February 1, 2018. Cecil joined Jamaica Energy Partners in August 2008 and has served in

This year marks fifteen years since Garron has been playing

the roles of Plant Technician, Mechanical Technician,

badminton and after realizing his knack for the sport, he

Lead Mechanical Technician and most recently,

decided it was time to showcase his talent nationally. Today,

Assistant Service Engineer (acting in the capacity as

Garron is part of the Jamaica Badminton Association and

Service Engineer).

recognised as a senior badminton player.

Cecil has been a dedicated and consistent employee

From March 1-March 4, Garron participated in a national

to JEP for over nine years. JEP is, therefore,

badminton tournament at the National Indoor Sports Centre.

honoured to recognise his contributions to the

After competing against some of the world’s top badminton

Technical Services Department and the company

players, Garron achieved a bronze medal.

throughout his tenure.

Today, Garron still plays and enjoys badminton, however, Please join us in congratulating and supporting Cecil

spends most of his time giving back; and helping young

as he continues to excel.

badminton players to practice, stay focused, perform at their best and love the sport as well.

10

Issue 14

Human Resources

Employee Recognitions - WKPP

RECOGNIZED FOR IMPECCABLE PUNCTUALITY

PATRICK GORDON MAINTENANCE PLANNER, WKPP.

,

Serving West Kingston Power Partners since 2012 as the Maintenance Planner, Patrick Gordon has shown nothing but relentless commitment and dedication to his job. He religiously reports for duty as early as 6 am every morning and when he arrives, immediately starts to prepare and plan his tasks for the day.

When asked by his colleagues, who admire this about him, why so early, he states that there are not enough hours in the workday to complete his tasks. Patrick, who is not only punctual but also always respectful to his peers and superiors, holds a vast amount of knowledge, is an avid reader and is constantly imparting his knowledge among his peers.

For his dedication, discipline and setting an exemplary example for all, the WKPP Social & Welfare Committee would like to salute Patrick and reward him with a Certificate of Achievement for Impeccable Punctuality.

Congratulations Patrick!

February 2018

11

Safety

DROP, COVER, HOLD! WKPP EARTHQUAKE DRILL A SUCCESS! An earthquake is a tremor

their responses. Illustrated in the following diagram are the general operational instructions

of the surface of the Earth

from the company’s response procedure and how persons should react:

which results from shock waves generated by the movement of rock masses deep within the Earth; particularly near boundaries of tectonic plates.

To protect its staff and visitors, WKPP implemented a policy and procedure to guide persons on how to react during and after this eventuality. One way to reiterate the seriousness of

Try to stay as calm

Stay away from furniture,

Stay away from buildings,

as possible.

windows and lamps.

walls and power poles.

earthquakes and prompt positive reactions from the staff is to practice through annual drills.

On February 2, Jermaine Spencer, WKPP’s Safety

If you are driving stop at

If you use a wheelchair, put

If you are in a crowded place,

and Security Specialist, led

a safe place. Turn on the

the brakes on in a safe place

protect your head with your

WKPP’s annual earthquake

hazard lights and stay inside

and protect your head with

arms or take cover under

the vehicle

your arms.

seats and table

drill to sensitize staff and test

12

Issue 14

February 2018

13

FORKLIFT SAFETY THE DO’s & DON’TS 1. Operators must be qualified!

Operating forklifts should only be done by

Before starting the forklift it’s important to ensure all the equipment’s controls are

individuals who have been trained properly and

in reach and the seat position and mirrors are adjusted to the operator’s needs.

contain a licence to operate the equipment.

The operator should not start the forklift until they are correctly seated with their 2. Appropriate clothing must be

safety belt fastened and all parts of their body are safely inside the confines of the operators cabin or the forklift.

worn.

Ensure that operators wear the appropriate safety work wear; usually consisting of a hard hat, safety shoes and hi-visibility jackets.

5. Consider the surrounding environment Whilst operating a forklift you must pay attention

The work wear must be reasonably fitted

and follow any work site rules and guidelines.

as any loose clothing can get caught on machinery.

The operator must only drive the equipment in the machinery’s designated roadways. Observe

Don’t operate/hold any of the controls when

all signs, especially those on maximum permitted

your hands have grease on them; it may cause

floor loadings and clearance heights. Be aware of

them to slide off and cause an accident.

the height of the load, mast and overhead guard of the forklift when entering or exiting buildings.

3. Examine Equipment before use Operators should do a routine check of the

6. Operate at a safe speed

equipment before driving them. Some things

Never proceed past the speed limit.

you should check for: any faults in the brakes, steering, controls, warning devices, mast and

Take corners and any turns slowly to minimise

tyres.

risk of tipping.

If there are any noted damages or problems

Make any changes in direction or any stops

management should be notified and the

gradually and slowly.

forklift should not be operated if it needs to be repaired.

7. Avoid Hazards Steer clear of any bumps or uneven

Always consider the ‘journey’s end’ of a load

ground surfaces along with slippery

before picking it up. A convenient position of

conditions.

a load from pick up may not be convenient for stacking.

Steer clear of loose ground objects which could cause loss of control 4. Starting up the forklift

over the equipment or a load to move

For safety purposes it’s

around.

important for the operator to make use of the steps

Use the horn when closing in on a

and hand grabs to seat

corner or doorway/entrance and

themselves correctly in the forklift.

around people to alert

pedestrians or other forklift operators

Do not lift or move loads that are not safe

12. Driving on Ramps

of your whereabouts to avoid any

or stable.

When driving up ramps’ move in a

unnecessary collision.

forward direction and down ramps in Make sure loads are correctly stacked

Keep a safe distance from other trucks

and positioned across both forks.

in case they move in an unpredictable manner.

reverse, especially while carrying loads.

Do not load or unload goods or turn

Stack the load on the pallet or skid safely

whilst on a ramp.

and correctly.

Make sure that you always have enough space to stop safely.

13. Ensure the forklift is not Use securing measures such as ropes or bindings if required.

secure

9. Make sure you have clear visibility

them for stability and damage.

Operate the forklift in reverse when it

It is important to ensure that the load is

improves visibility; except when moving

tilted back with the forks sitting low whilst

up ramps.

transporting in order to increase truck stability.

Do not use the tip of the forks as a lever to raise a heavy load.

8. Ensure your load is stable and Check the loads carefully before moving

Overloaded

Do not push a load with the tip of the forks.

Know the capacity of your forklift and any attachments being used and never

It is important to make sure you can

exceed this capacity.

see the racking clearly in which you are Check for any overhead objects before

positioning your load.

lifting or stacking loads.

An overload can cause the rear tyres to be raised off the ground and may cause

If visibility is poor do not continue driving;

the forklift to tip over.

in some circumstances you may need a lookout helper to assist you.

14. Ensure the Load is evenly distributed

10. Forklifts are for Carrying Loads only

Do not lift or move a load unless both forks are fully under the load.

Operators must not let others ride on the equipment unless another seat is fitted

Do not lift a load with one fork. Use

safely to the forklift for a second person.

pallets and skids that can withstand the weight of the load.

If a person has to be lifted, use only a securely attached work platform

Do not use damaged, deformed or

and cage and follow the appropriate

decayed pallets for holding loads.

operating instructions.

15. Refuelling 11. Keep Clear of the Mast

A forklift should only be refuelled at

Do not authorise anyone to stand or walk

specially designated locations.

under the load or forklift machinery - the

Switch off the forklift.

load can fall causing injury or death.

For IC engine forklifts, no open flame Keep hands and feet clear of the cross

or sparks are permitted, and refuelling

members of the mast - serious injury can

should take place in a well-ventilated

be caused if the mast is lowered while

area.

your hand is on it.

16. When the Shift Ends After use ensure the forklift is parked in a designated or authorised area.

Fully lower the forks to the floor and apply the park brake.

Turn the forklift “off” and remove the key.

Do not leave a forklift running whilst unattended.

WHY SHOULD A WORKPLACE LOOK AT PROBLEMATIC SUBSTANCE SUBSTANCE SUBSTANCE USE ISSUES? USE USE The fact that some people use substances such as alcohol or illicit drugs, or that some people misuse prescription drugs is not new. The awareness that the use and abuse of substances may affect the workplace just as the workplace may affect how a person uses substances is, however, increasing in acceptance. Many aspects of the workplace require alertness, and accurate and quick reflexes. An impairment to these qualities can cause incidents, and interfere with the accuracy and efficiency of work.

Ways that problematic substance use may cause issues at work include: »»

Any impact on a person’s judgment, alertness, perception, motor coordination or emotional state that also impacts working safely or safety sensitive decisions.

»»

After-effects of substance use (hangover, withdrawal) affecting job performance.

»»

Absenteeism, illness, and/or reduced productivity.

»»

Preoccupation with obtaining and using substances while at work, interfering with attention and concentration.

»»

Illegal activities at work including selling illicit drugs to other employees.

»»

Psychological or stress-related effects due to substance use by a family member, friend or co-worker that affects another person’s job performance.

Note that substance use is often thought of as an addiction or dependence, but use can be anywhere on the spectrum or scale from recreational to frequent to problematic. As a result, there are varying impacts on lives and work. The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health use the following “4 C’s” to describe addiction: »»

craving

»»

loss of control of amount or frequency of use

»»

compulsion to use

»»

use despite consequences

In general, what are the effects of various types of substances?

Category

Examples

Examples of General Effects

»»

loss of production, and

Alcohol

beer, wine, spirits

impaired judgement, slowed reflexes,

»»

workplace violence and harassment.

impaired motor function, sleepiness or drowsiness, coma, overdose may be fatal Cannabis

marijuana, hashish

distorted sense of time, impaired memory, impaired coordination

Depressants

Nicotine Opiates

Stimulants

tardiness/sleeping on the job

»»

theft

inattention, slowed reflexes,

»»

poor decision making

sedatives, some

depression, impaired balance, drowsiness, coma, overdose may be

»»

loss of efficiency

tranquilizers

»»

lower morale and

LSD (lysergic acid

inattention, sensory illusions,

diethylamide), PCP

hallucinations, disorientation,

(phencyclidine),

psychosis

physical wellbeing of worker and co-workers »»

mescaline Inhalants

»»

sleeping medicines,

fatal Hallucinogens

Additional costs can include:

increased

hydrocarbons,

intoxication similar to alcohol,

likelihood of

solvents, gasoline

dizziness, headache

having trouble

cigarettes, chewing

initial stimulant, later depressant

with co-workers/

tobacco, snuff

effects

supervisors

morphine, heroin,

loss of interest, “nodding”, overdose

codeine, some

may be fatal. If used by injection,

prescription pain

the sharing of needles may spread

medications

Hepatitis B, or C and HIV/AIDS.

cocaine,

elevated mood, overactivity, tension/

amphetamines

anxiety, rapid heartbeat, constriction of blood vessels

(Source: Blume, S.B., Alcohol and Drug Abuse in the Encyclopaedia of Occupational Health and Safety 4th edition, International Labour Office, 1998)

What are the costs to a business?

The economic impacts of substance use to businesses or industries worldwide have been traditionally difficult to measure. Many costs are hidden by general absenteeism or illnesses, “unnoticed” lack of productivity, or inability or reluctance to link substance use directly with causes of incidents.

Costs to a business may be both direct and indirect. The impact of substance use that have been reported include: »»

safety (fatalities, incidents, etc.)

»»

absenteeism/sick leave/turnover or presenteeism (Presenteeism or working while sick can cause productivity loss, poor health, exhaustion and workplace epidemics)

»»

training of new employees

»»

disciplinary procedures

»»

drug testing programs

»»

medical/rehabilitation/employee assistance

A badly managed problem can lead to:

programs »»

inancial problems for the individual

Are there elements of work that may

»»

a breakdown in relationships with family, and

contribute to the use of substances?

»»

unemployment,

»»

domestic abuse, and

»»

homelessness (in some cases)

Various and numerous organizational, personal and social factors can play a crucial role as to why a person may choose to use a substance. In general, however, some work-related factors can include:

Signs of Drug Use at Work

»»

high stress,

»»

high demand/low control situations,

»»

low job satisfaction,

»»

long hours or irregular shifts,

»»

fatigue,

»»

repetitious duties,

»»

An inability to carry out work-related duties.

»»

periods of inactivity or boredom,

»»

Inconsistent job performance

»»

isolation,

»»

Frequent small accidents

»»

lack of opportunity for promotion,

»»

Lateness

»»

lack of, remote, or irregular supervision and,

»»

Numerous unexplained absences (on average, addicts miss ten

»»

easy access to substances.

If you have concerns about an employee who may be struggling with substance misuse, some signals suggest that an employee is abusing substances. The following is a non-exhaustive, but comprehensive list of substance abuse warning signs at work:

work days for every one missed by other employees) »»

Paranoia and aggression

»»

Bloodshot eyes or signs of tiredness

»»

Overreactions to criticism

»»

Dental problems

»»

Sudden weight loss/gain

increased accident rates, absenteeism, and diminishing

»»

Unsteady gait

levels of productivity from the individual and their team.

»»

Bouts of manic activity

»»

Sluggishness

of drugs in the workplace is advantageous to all.

»»

Neglecting responsibilities

Not least because when a business doesn’t manage

»»

Participating in dangerous or criminal

Effects of Substance Abuse in the Workplace.

Badly managed substance misuse has serious consequences. In the past, bad management of misuse had led to the deterioration of health and relationships,

Therefore, taking a proactive approach to the misuse

substance misuse effectively, they often experience: »»

A damaged reputation

»»

A lack of productivity

»»

Accidents ranging from minor to fatal

»»

A loss of morale in the organisation or within a team

»»

A breakdown in working relationships

»»

Potential legal costs

behaviours, such as disorderly behaviour, carelessness, drink driving or theft »»

Neglecting or damaging working relationships

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February 2018

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