Alcoholism

Alcoholism is a critical problem facing many Americans today. Alcohol is a socially acceptable drug that has been consumed throughout the world for centuries. It is considered a recreational beverage when consumed in moderation for enjoyment and relaxation during social gatherings. However, when consumed primarily for its physical and mood-altering effects, it is a substance of abuse. As a depressant, it slows down physical responses and progressively impairs mental functions.

Therefore, D.O.T. regulated employees cannot be allowed to perform safety-sensitive duties if they have a blood alcohol content of .02 or greater.

Signs and Symptoms of Use

· Dulled mental processes

· Lack of coordination

· Odor of alcohol on breath

· Possible constricted pupils

· Sleepy or stuporous condition

· Slowed reaction rate

· Slurred speech

Health Effects

The chronic consumption of alcohol (average of three servings per day of beer [12 ounces], whiskey [1 ounce], or wine [6 ounce glass]) over time may result in the following health hazards:

· Decreased sexual functioning

· Dependency (up to 10 percent of all people who drink alcohol become physically and/or mentally dependent on alcohol and can be termed "alcoholic")

· Fatal liver diseases

· Increased cancers of the mouth, tongue, pharynx, esophagus, rectum, breast, and malignant melanoma

· Kidney disease

· Pancreatitis

· Spontaneous abortion and neonatal mortality

· Ulcers

· Birth defects (up to 54 percent of all birth defects are alcohol related).

Workplace Issues

· It takes one hour for the average person (150 pounds) to process one serving of an alcoholic beverage from the body.

· Impairment in coordination and judgment can be objectively measured with as little as two drinks in the body.

· A person who is legally intoxicated is 6 times more likely to have an accident than a sober person.

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