--- title: Recognizing and Addressing Workplace Substance Abuse - DSP Insurance Services description: How to recognize and address workplace substance abuse. Policies, EAP resources and employer responsibilities explained. image: https://blog.dspins.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/Recognizing-and-Addressing-Workplace-Substance-Abuse.jpg --- [![DSP Insurance Services](https://blog.dspins.com/hs-fs/hubfs/raw_assets/public/Dsp_November2023/images/DSP-Logo-500.png?width=500&height=382&name=DSP-Logo-500.png "DSP Insurance Services")](https://www.dspins.com/) - [Insurance Solutions](https://www.dspins.com/insurance-solutions/) - [Business Insurance](https://www.dspins.com/business-insurance/) - [Workers’ Compensation](https://www.dspins.com/business-insurance/workers-compensation-insurance/) - [Directors and Officers Liability](https://www.dspins.com/business-insurance/directors-and-officers-liability-insurance/) - [Employment Practice Liability](https://www.dspins.com/business-insurance/employment-practice-liability-insurance/) - [See All](https://www.dspins.com/business-insurance/) - [Employee Benefits](https://www.dspins.com/employee-benefits/) - [Group Health](https://www.dspins.com/employee-benefits/group-health-insurance/) - [Group Dental](https://www.dspins.com/employee-benefits/group-dental-insurance/) - [Group Vision](https://www.dspins.com/employee-benefits/group-vision-insurance/) - [See All](https://www.dspins.com/employee-benefits/) - [Insurance by Industry](https://www.dspins.com/business-insurance/insurance-by-industry/) - [Contractor](https://www.dspins.com/business-insurance/insurance-by-industry/contractor-insurance/) - [Manufacturer](https://www.dspins.com/business-insurance/insurance-by-industry/manufacturer-insurance/) - [Financial Institution](https://www.dspins.com/business-insurance/insurance-by-industry/financial-institution-insurance/) - [See All](https://www.dspins.com/business-insurance/insurance-by-industry/) - [Personal Insurance](https://www.dspins.com/personal-insurance/) - [Home](https://www.dspins.com/personal-insurance/home-insurance/) - [Auto](https://www.dspins.com/personal-insurance/auto-insurance/) - [Umbrella](https://www.dspins.com/personal-insurance/umbrella-insurance/) - [See All](https://www.dspins.com/personal-insurance/) - [Safety Consulting](https://www.dspins.com/safety-consulting/) - [Service Center](https://www.dspins.com/service-center/) - [Explore Policy Options](https://www.dspins.com/service-center/) - [Report a Claim](https://www.dspins.com/service-center/report-a-claim/) - [Request Auto ID Card](https://www.dspins.com/service-center/request-auto-id-card/) - [Request a Certificate](https://www.dspins.com/service-center/request-certificate/) - [Request a Bond](https://www.dspins.com/service-center/report-a-claim/) - [Policy Review](https://www.dspins.com/service-center/policy-review/) - [Request Policy Change](https://www.dspins.com/service-center/request-policy-change/) - [Client Login](https://www.dspins.com/service-center/#client-login) - [Custom Insurance Benchmarking](https://www.dspins.com/custom-insurance-benchmarking/) - [About](https://www.dspins.com/service-center/) - [About Our Agency](https://blog.dspins.com/About%20Our%20Agency) - [Agency News](https://www.dspins.com/blog/category/agency-news/) - [Meet Our Team](https://www.dspins.com/about-our-agency/meet-our-team/) - [Read Our Reviews](https://www.dspins.com/about-our-agency/read-our-reviews/) - [We Are Independent](https://www.dspins.com/about-our-agency/we-are-independent/) - [Community Involvement](https://www.dspins.com/about-our-agency/community-involvement/) - [Join Our Team](https://www.dspins.com/about-our-agency/join-our-team/) - [Learn About Our Agency](https://www.dspins.com/about-our-agency/) - Media - [Blog](https://blog.dspins.com/) - [Podcast](https://www.dspins.com/podcast/) - [Events](https://info.dspins.com/events) - [Contact](https://www.dspins.com/contact/) - [Schaumburg, IL Office](https://www.dspins.com/contact/schaumburg-il-insurance/) - [1900 E. Golf Road Suite 650 Schaumburg, IL 60173](https://www.dspins.com/contact/schaumburg-il-insurance/) - [847-934-6100](tel:847-934-6100) - [info@dspins.com](https://blog.dspins.com/info@dspins.com) - [Review Us](https://www.dspins.com/contact/review-us/) - [Refer Us](https://www.dspins.com/contact/refer-us/) - [Contact](https://www.dspins.com/contact/) [847-934-6100](tel:847-934-6100) [Request Quote](https://www.dspins.com/request-quote/) *Menu* - [Insurance Solutions](https://www.dspins.com/insurance-solutions/) - [Safety Consulting](https://www.dspins.com/safety-consulting/) - [Business Insurance](https://www.dspins.com/business-insurance/) - [Workers’ Compensation](https://www.dspins.com/business-insurance/workers-compensation-insurance/) - [Directors and Officers Liability](https://www.dspins.com/business-insurance/directors-and-officers-liability-insurance/) - [Employment Practice Liability](https://www.dspins.com/business-insurance/employment-practice-liability-insurance/) - [See All](https://www.dspins.com/business-insurance/) - [Employee Benefits](https://www.dspins.com/employee-benefits/) - [Group Health](https://www.dspins.com/employee-benefits/group-health-insurance/) - [Group Dental](https://www.dspins.com/employee-benefits/group-dental-insurance/) - [Group Vision](https://www.dspins.com/employee-benefits/group-vision-insurance/) - [See All](https://www.dspins.com/employee-benefits/) - [Insurance by Industry](https://www.dspins.com/business-insurance/insurance-by-industry/) - [Contractor](https://www.dspins.com/business-insurance/insurance-by-industry/contractor-insurance/) - [Manufacturer](https://www.dspins.com/business-insurance/insurance-by-industry/manufacturer-insurance/) - [Financial Institution](https://www.dspins.com/business-insurance/insurance-by-industry/financial-institution-insurance/) - [See All](https://www.dspins.com/business-insurance/insurance-by-industry/) - [Personal Insurance](https://www.dspins.com/personal-insurance/) - [Home](https://www.dspins.com/personal-insurance/home-insurance/) - [Auto](https://www.dspins.com/personal-insurance/auto-insurance/) - [Umbrella](https://www.dspins.com/personal-insurance/umbrella-insurance/) - [See All](https://www.dspins.com/personal-insurance/) - [Service Center](https://www.dspins.com/service-center/) - [Explore Policy Options](https://www.dspins.com/service-center/) - [Report a Claim](https://www.dspins.com/service-center/report-a-claim/) - [Request Auto ID Card](https://www.dspins.com/service-center/request-auto-id-card/) - [Request a Certificate](https://www.dspins.com/service-center/request-certificate/) - [Request a Bond](https://www.dspins.com/service-center/report-a-claim/) - [Policy Review](https://www.dspins.com/service-center/policy-review/) - [Request Policy Change](https://www.dspins.com/service-center/request-policy-change/) - [Client Login](https://www.dspins.com/service-center/#client-login) - [Custom Insurance Benchmarking](https://www.dspins.com/custom-insurance-benchmarking/) - [About](https://www.dspins.com/service-center/) - [About Our Agency](https://blog.dspins.com/About%20Our%20Agency) - [Agency News](https://www.dspins.com/blog/category/agency-news/) - [Meet Our Team](https://www.dspins.com/about-our-agency/meet-our-team/) - [Read Our Reviews](https://www.dspins.com/about-our-agency/read-our-reviews/) - [We Are Independent](https://www.dspins.com/about-our-agency/we-are-independent/) - [Community Involvement](https://www.dspins.com/about-our-agency/community-involvement/) - [Join Our Team](https://www.dspins.com/about-our-agency/join-our-team/) - [Learn About Our Agency](https://www.dspins.com/about-our-agency/) - [Blog](https://www.dspins.com/blog/) - [Events](https://info.dspins.com/events) - [Contact](https://www.dspins.com/contact/) - [Schaumburg, IL Office](https://www.dspins.com/contact/schaumburg-il-insurance/) - [1900 E. Golf Road Suite 650 Schaumburg, IL 60173](https://www.dspins.com/contact/schaumburg-il-insurance/) - [847-934-6100](tel:847-934-6100) - [info@dspins.com](https://blog.dspins.com/info@dspins.com) - [Review Us](https://www.dspins.com/contact/review-us/) - [Refer Us](https://www.dspins.com/contact/refer-us/) - [Contact](https://www.dspins.com/contact/) - [847-934-6100](tel:847-934-6100) - [Request Quote](https://www.dspins.com/request-quote/) - - [Steve Stetson](https://blog.dspins.com/author/steve-stetson) [Safety Consulting](https://blog.dspins.com/tag/safety-consulting) 1 Minutes ## Recognizing and Addressing Workplace Substance Abuse ![Recognizing and Addressing Workplace Substance Abuse](https://blog.dspins.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/Recognizing-and-Addressing-Workplace-Substance-Abuse.jpg "Recognizing and Addressing Workplace Substance Abuse") Workplace substance abuse is a growing concern across many industries. Supervisors, in particular, are on the front lines when it comes to identifying potential problems and ensuring that safety and productivity are maintained. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of drug or alcohol use is crucial for taking the right action before an issue escalates. **Behavioral Indicators of Workplace Substance Abuse** One of the key responsibilities of a supervisor is to stay aware of any unusual or concerning behavior in employees. Workplace substance abuse often manifests in changes to an employee’s demeanor, work habits, or interpersonal interactions. Here are a few common behavioral indicators: • Frequent Absenteeism or Tardiness: Employees who are engaging in workplace substance abuse may often show up late or miss work altogether without valid reasons. • Erratic Mood Swings: Sudden changes in mood, such as extreme irritability, aggression, or uncharacteristic withdrawal, can signal a problem. • Decreased Productivity: Substance use can impair focus and attention to detail, leading to diminished work output or a lack of attention to safety protocols. • Deterioration of Personal Hygiene: A noticeable decline in appearance or cleanliness can be a red flag, especially if it occurs alongside other concerning behaviors. **Physical Signs of Workplace Substance Abuse to Watch For** Aside from behavioral shifts, supervisors should also be aware of physical symptoms that could indicate workplace substance abuse. Some of the most noticeable include: • Bloodshot Eyes: This can be a sign of alcohol use, marijuana consumption, or fatigue caused by workplace substance abuse. • Slurred Speech: Difficulty speaking or forming coherent sentences may point to intoxication or drug use. • Unsteady Movements: Difficulty maintaining balance or coordination can be a physical sign of impairment. • Unusual Smells: Odors of alcohol, marijuana, or chemicals associated with drug use can sometimes be detected on the breath or clothing of an individual. **The Importance of Documentation in Cases of Workplace Substance Abuse** Once any signs or symptoms are observed, proper documentation is essential. This step not only ensures that supervisors are acting in compliance with company policies but also helps in protecting the company from potential legal issues down the line. Documentation should be objective and detail specific incidents or behaviors that raise suspicion. **Learn More About Reasonable Suspicion** Understanding these signs and symptoms is just one component of maintaining a safe workplace. If you’re a supervisor looking to enhance your knowledge and ensure you’re equipped to handle workplace substance abuse, consider attending our upcoming Reasonable Suspicion Training for Supervisors on Friday, Setpmeber, 20th.  In this session, you’ll learn about USDOT compliance, testing processes, and what steps to take after identifying suspicious behavior. [Register today!](https://info.dspins.com/events/reasonable-suspicion-training-for-supervisors) --- #### Tag: [Safety Consulting](https://blog.dspins.com/tag/safety-consulting) #### Share: - [Follow us on Linkedin](http://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://blog.dspins.com/recognizing-and-addressing-workplace-substance-abuse) - [Follow us on Mail](mailto:?subject=Recognizing%20and%20Addressing%20Workplace%20Substance%20Abuse%20&%20body=https://blog.dspins.com/recognizing-and-addressing-workplace-substance-abuse) - Follow us on Copy Copied to clipboard --- --- ## Related Posts It is a long established fact that a reader will be distracted by the readable content of a page when looking at its layout. [Safety Consulting](https://blog.dspins.com/tag/safety-consulting) [Steve Stetson](https://blog.dspins.com/author/steve-stetson) 27 January, 2026 #### [OSHA Injury and Illness Reporting Requirements for Employers](https://blog.dspins.com/osha-injury-and-illness-reporting-requirements-for-employers) Each year, certain employers are required to submit workplace injury and illness data to OSHA… [Read More](https://blog.dspins.com/osha-injury-and-illness-reporting-requirements-for-employers) [Safety Consulting](https://blog.dspins.com/tag/safety-consulting) [Steve Stetson](https://blog.dspins.com/author/steve-stetson) 04 December, 2025 #### [Why Safety Matters Now More Than Ever](https://blog.dspins.com/why-safety-matters-now-more-than-ever) Every year, OSHA publishes a list of the most frequently cited safety standards. It gives us a… [Read More](https://blog.dspins.com/why-safety-matters-now-more-than-ever) [Safety Consulting](https://blog.dspins.com/tag/safety-consulting) [Steve Stetson](https://blog.dspins.com/author/steve-stetson) 01 October, 2025 #### [Carbon Monoxide Safety: Protecting Your Home and Family](https://blog.dspins.com/carbon-monoxide-safety-protecting-your-home-and-family) Carbon monoxide (CO) is a silent, odorless, and colorless gas that can be deadly if not detected… [Read More](https://blog.dspins.com/carbon-monoxide-safety-protecting-your-home-and-family) - Insurance Solutions - [Business Insurance](https://www.dspins.com/business-insurance/) - [Insurance by Industry](https://www.dspins.com/business-insurance/insurance-by-industry/) - [Employee Benefits](https://www.dspins.com/employee-benefits/) - [Personal Insurance](https://www.dspins.com/personal-insurance/) - [Explore Interactive Graphics](https://www.dspins.com/clickable-coverage/) - [Safety Consulting](https://www.dspins.com/safety-consulting/) - [Custom Insurance Benchmarking](https://www.dspins.com/custom-insurance-benchmarking/) - About DSP Insurance Services - [About Our Agency](https://www.dspins.com/about-our-agency/) - [Meet Our Team](https://www.dspins.com/about-our-agency/meet-our-team/) - [Read Our Reviews](https://www.dspins.com/about-our-agency/read-our-reviews/) - [We Are Independent](https://www.dspins.com/about-our-agency/we-are-independent/) - [Join Our Team](https://www.dspins.com/about-our-agency/join-our-team/) - [Blog](https://www.dspins.com/blog/) - Get Help - [Report a Claim](https://www.dspins.com/service-center/report-a-claim/) - [Request Auto ID Card](https://www.dspins.com/service-center/request-auto-id-card/) - [Request a Certificate](https://www.dspins.com/service-center/request-certificate/) - [Request a Bond](https://www.dspins.com/service-center/request-a-bond/) - [Policy Review](https://www.dspins.com/service-center/policy-review/) - [Request Policy Change](https://www.dspins.com/service-center/request-policy-change/) - [Client Login](https://www.dspins.com/service-center/#client-login) ###### Contact Us 1900 E. Golf Road Suite 650 Schaumburg, IL 60173 --- [info@dspins.com](mailto:info@dspins.com) [847-934-6100](tel:847-934-6100) 847-934-6186 fax [Contact Us](https://www.dspins.com/contact/) ![placeholder_200x200](https://blog.dspins.com/hs-fs/hubfs/raw_assets/public/Dsp_November2023/images/DSP-Insurance-Services-Logo-Icon.png?width=200&name=DSP-Insurance-Services-Logo-Icon.png "placeholder_200x200") ### Experience the Value of an Independent Agency --- Promising stability. Providing peace of mind. Caring about each client individually. This is more than what we do every day. It’s why we come in every day. Because at DSP Insurance Services, our future is yours. We are licensed in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, as well as Europe, Asia, Australia, and around the globe. © 2023 DSP Insurance Services | All rights reserved | [Privacy Policy](https://www.dspins.com/privacy-policy/) World-class service and insurance solutions around the globe. World-class service and insurance solutions around the globe. World-class service and insurance solutions around the globe. Insurance Solutions 847-934-6100