The Workplace, Substance Abuse & Staying Safe

Episode 142

The Workplace, Substance Abuse & Staying Safe

2021 was the deadliest year for drug overdoses in America. Listen in as Editor Sydny Shepard describes signs of substance use and effective drug-free workplace policies.

In previous episodes of the podcast, we have stressed that workers are… human. They have responsibilities and hobbies outside of work. They have families and friends. They have an entire life that happens outside of work—but what happens when life and work mesh in a negative way for both the employee and the employer?

On today’s episode of the podcast, we are going to discuss the effects of alcohol and drugs in the workplace as well as some startlingly statistics on opioid overdoses in the United States. We will walk what you, as a friend, co-worker and safety professional, can do to ensure that employees are safe on the job.

If you have a topic you'd like us to cover on OH&S SafetyPod, feel free to email us at [email protected].

Download or stream this episode today at Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify and more

A special thank you to Big Ass Fans

For more than 20 years, Big Ass Fans has been the industry leader in comfort. Its state-of-the-art fans, evaporative coolers, and heaters have transformed the most inhospitable of spaces into the most inviting of environments. Serving industrial, commercial, and residential sectors, every Big Ass Fans product is engineered for unequaled performance. Learn more at BigAssFans.com.

About the Author

Sydny Shepard is the former editor of Occupational Health & Safety.

Product Showcase

  • The MGC Simple Plus

    The MGC Simple Plus

    The MGC Simple Plus is a simple-to-use, portable multi-gas detector that runs continuously for three years without needing to be recharged or routinely calibrated after its initial charge and calibration during manufacturing. The detector reliably tests a worksite’s atmosphere for hydrogen sulfide, carbon monoxide, oxygen and combustible gases (LEL). Additionally, it is durable enough to withstand the harshest treatment and environments, which is why it has an IP 68 rating. The MGC Simple Plus is also compatible with a variety of accessories, such as Gas Clip Technologies’ new GCT External Pump. Visit gascliptech.com for more information. 3

  • Magellan X Pte Ltd

    Hesitate No More with SOL-X Connected Worker Health & Safety Solution

    According to the National Safety Council, work-related medically consulted injuries total 4.26 million in 2021 in USA alone. SOL-X solution prevents “human factors” safety issues by anticipating incidents and improving compliance workflows. Leverages digital technologies (IIoT, AI and analytics) to predict patterns from occurring and make informed decisions. Control Of Work - gets rid of tedious paperwork and experience digital workflows. Crew Protect - maximises safety and situational awareness with health trackers and situational indicators. Award-winning Intrinsically Safe SmartWatch – innovative features that enable near real-time visibility and connected well-being. Works well with major connectivity protocols like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Long-Range Bluetooth! 3

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    Make selection & use of SRLs simpler with the new V-SHOCK line

    The new MSA V-SHOCK EDGE Cable SRLs and Web PFLs for Leading Edge use are designed for simplicity and hassle-free safety. V-SHOCK EDGE solutions help make PPE selection on the jobsite quick and easy with color-coded housings, clear icons on labels, and clearance charts in the label pack. 3

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