18/06/2026
Alcohol & drugs in the workplace remain one of the most misunderstood — and risky — areas for employers to manage.
Recently, I sat down with Labour Law Specialist Raymond Meneses in the studio for our Risky Business series to unpack what employers need to know when dealing with alcohol and drugs at work from both an Occupational Health & Safety (OHS) and Labour Law perspective.
Too often organisations focus only on discipline, while overlooking the safety risks, legal obligations, and procedural requirements that come with managing these situations properly.
In our discussion we explore:
• The employer’s responsibility under the Occupational Health and Safety Act
• The labour law considerations when dealing with intoxication at work
• When alcohol and drug testing is appropriate
• The importance of having a clear Alcohol & Drug Policy
• Common mistakes employers make that create legal risk
• Practical guidance for managers, HR professionals, and safety practitioners
Alcohol and drug use at work is not just a disciplinary issue — it is a risk management and compliance issue that requires the right policies, leadership, and processes.
Watch the full discussion here:
https://srmc.co.za/alcohol-drugs-in-the-workplace-2-risks-every-employers-faces/
This episode forms part of our Risky Business series, where we bring experts into the studio to discuss real-world issues around risk, compliance, leadership, and workplace safety.
If you are responsible for HR, safety, compliance, or leadership, this conversation will provide valuable insights.