Following great debate, the new 24 hour licensing arrangements will finally come into effect in November, so in preparation, pub owners have been invited to apply for extended opening from 7th February. If the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) is to be believed, less than 50% of licensed premises are planning to open their doors 24 hours a day, but those that do are inviting your employees inside????

A few facts for you to consider:

• A survey of almost 8,500 UK staff shows the majority of respondents believe that round the- clock licences will have a detrimental effect on productivity at work
• The total cost of alcohol abuse to UK business - combining the cost of drink-induced sick days with lost productivity caused by hangovers at work - is already estimated at almost £2.8bn per annum!
• Almost a third of survey respondents suggest that it is now more acceptable to turn up to work with a hangover than it was three years ago!
• UK employees on average turn up to work with a hangover two-and-a half days a year, which, given a working population of 28,301,000, translates to more than 72 million days!
• Hangovers cause a 27 per cent loss in productivity among those who make it into work after a night of alcoholic excess!

Source: Reed

Ok, so we don't expect the majority of the UK to attend work with a hangover as soon as the first pub is open 24 hours in November, but be ready for that minority by having some safeguards in place:

1. A clear Drugs and Alcohol Policy - an essential tool for describing what is and what isn't acceptable in relation to drugs and alcohol
2. A clear Absence Policy, including the requirement for return to work interviews on their first day back. Having to explain to your manager your reason for being absent is a great deterrent!
3. Know the signs - look for changes in attitude, behaviour and the all important slide in productivity!
4. Be aware of any employees who have second jobs in bars or clubs, whose working hours may be affected by the change in licensing laws

A well written, clearly defined policy will leave no room for misinterpretation or doubt and provides the first step in discouraging undesirable behaviour.

If you would like further information, please contact Laura Cerasale at laura@hradvantage.co.uk or call 01494 435310.

Cheers!

February 2005