THE Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS) has launched a new programme to help tackle drug and alcohol issues in the construction sector.
The organisation said the online ‘Drugs and Alcohol e-learning’ course focuses on how contractors, subcontractors, suppliers and clients can take “practical and effective” measures to protect employees.
CCS said potential side-effects of drugs and alcohol – including impaired awareness, reduced concentration and loss of coordination – can be “incredibly dangerous” in an industry where working at height and operating vehicles and heavy machinery are commonplace.
The course aims to provide a platform for the industry to learn about the risks as well as methods to manage them and support those who need it.
CCS chief executive Edward Hardy said, “The impact of drugs and alcohol on the construction industry is an extremely serious issue and one which the industry is working hard to address. We all know that our industry is only as strong as our workforce and it is therefore essential to ensure that everyone in our workforce is well looked after, both physically and mentally.
“As drugs and alcohol has a huge impact on both the physical and mental wellbeing of everyone, we see our Drugs and Alcohol e-learning as an essential way of extending the Scheme’s reach to help educate and further raise awareness to help address this issue.”
