Behind the wheel, behind the desk, or on the shop floor, substance abuse can kill. For example, a construction worker who was impaired by alcohol fell to his death through a floor opening. Many jobs require alertness, accuracy and quick reflexes. When something interferes with those abilities, the results can be devastating. Substance abuse can significantly hamper a person's performance. So why do people abuse alcohol and drugs? There are many reasons. Job-related factors can include:

• High stress
• Low satisfaction
• Long hours or irregular shifts
• Fatigue
• Repetitive duties
• Periods of boredom
• Isolation
• Remote or irregular supervision

The aftereffects of substance abuse can also […]