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
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A breakdown in working relationships
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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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