Alcohol awareness week commences 11th November 2019. The theme is ‘alcohol and me’. The purpose ‘alcohol awareness’ is to discuss the impact of alcohol and health. In today’s society alcohol plays a big part; whether it is due to celebrations or a quite drink in a pub we all have a duty to look after our health. What alcohol awareness week highlights is what we can all do to reduce the intake of alcohol and to improve our overall health.
The long term impact of drinking excessively can have a number of negative effects on the body and mind; for example liver disease, high blood pressure, being overweight and mental health issues.
This is bad news for the employer as this could lead to high absence within the workplace. Therefore, it would be beneficial for the employer to consider publicising ‘alcohol awareness week’ with recommendations on a healthier lifestyle.
So how can an employer promote this?
There are free literature and poster materials on line which can be printed and stuck around the office. Employer’s may wish to communicate ‘alcohol awareness’ through email or team meetings. Employers can also turn to a number of support groups should employees need further assistance or help with reducing their alcohol intake such as www.alcoholchange.org.uk
Interestingly, the NHS recommends staying within your limits and you can do this by monitoring the number of units you drink a week. The recommendations are not to drink more than 14 units per week. The NHS website breaks down the number of units per drink, for example a large glass of red wine is 3 units. Employees can control their ‘units’ by putting together a diary if it helps.
Alcohol intake can also be reduced by having ‘drink free’ days. By reducing alcohol intake, the body has time to recuperate thus avoiding long term health complications.
Alcohol awareness week has come at the right time particularly with the run up to Christmas and other festivities. Therefore, it is important employer’s start to highlight alcohol awareness sooner rather than later to avoid future ill health absences from work.
If you have any queries in regards to alcohol in the workplace or alcohol policies please call us on 0333 240 7208 or contact us here.
