The Workplace
Evidence of high rates of problem drinking in some workplace settings suggests it is a suitable venue for detection of risky drinking and intervention. Such screening and intervention has the potential to increase the health and safety of workers, and limit hazards and accidents in the workplace.
Detection of unsafe alcohol consumption should form part of any routine health evaluation in safety-critical workplaces. Workplace occupational health and safety procedures should identify appropriate strategies and referral options for those workers identified as having alcohol- related problems. Individuals identified during screening should be offered referral for assessment by a clinician with expertise in diagnosis and management of alcohol use disorders. Those with alcohol use disorders should be offered treatment, as described in these guidelines.
| Chapter |
Recommendation |
Grade of recommendation |
| 4.1 |
Screening for unhealthy alcohol use and appropriate intervention systems should be widely implemented in general practice. |
A |
| 4.2 |
Screening for unhealthy alcohol use and appropriate intervention should be widely implemented in emergency departments. |
C |
| 4.3 |
Screening for unhealthy alcohol use and appropriate intervention systems should be widely implemented in hospitals. |
B |
| 4.4 |
Screening for unhealthy alcohol use and appropriate intervention systems should be widely implemented in community health and welfare settings. |
C |
| 4.5 |
Screening for unhealthy alcohol use and appropriate intervention systems are feasible in specialist settings where alcohol use is high. There is insufficient evidence at this time to recommend wider implementation. |
C |
| 4.6 |
Screening for unhealthy alcohol use and appropriate intervention systems should be prioritised in high-risk workplaces. |
D |