
Wastewater data tells us that cocaine usage in Australia is on the increase and is now our third most consumed illicit drug. What’s more, usage is skewed toward capital cities. That means there is a high chance cocaine will make its way into our workplaces….and that is bad news.
Cocaine is a stimulant, speeding up messages to the brain. The effects, which typically last from 15-30 minutes, include feelings of euphoria, exhilaration, and confidence. Increased self-esteem and energy levels from cocaine use may make users feel able to work longer and harder. For these reasons, some workers may feel like the drug improves their performance at work. But ultimately, cocaine reduces their ability to do their jobs. Users may take more risks, lose focus, feel depressed, anxious or paranoid and start to panic.
Apart from the obvious safety concerns and increased accident risk, cocaine use can also compromise decision making, client relationships and productivity. Other effects of cocaine use at the workplace use include absenteeism, presenteeism and the impact on co-workers and managers.
If you would like to know more about cocaine, especially what it means for workplaces, watch our free webinar “Cocaine – Workplace Implications” which was presented by Dr David Allen on Wednesday 13th September by clicking below.
DASA (Drug and Alcohol Solutions Australia) is proud to be leading the way in workplace drug and alcohol testing services throughout Australia. Whether your need is for workplace drug and workplace alcohol testing, advice on drug and alcohol policy or ideas on how to communicate your workplace expectations, policies and procedures to your staff, DASA can help. We have the experience, technical expertise and people to lead you to the right solution.
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