COVID-19 has had an enormous impact on many businesses across Australia. In this series, we will explore the many changes and new risks that have dramatically altered the landscape for workplace drug testing.
Increased Alcohol Use During Pandemic
Many media outlets have reported increased sales and consumption of alcohol across Australia, as people cope with the stresses and anxiety of uncertain times. This poses increased risks for safety-sensitive industries, many of which are busier than ever in recent months.
“National polling by the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education (FARE) shows that 20 per cent of Australians purchased more alcohol and 70 per cent of them are drinking more alcohol than normal.”¹