Are you fit to work?

The term impairment refers to a variety of conditions and/or substances that impact a worker's normal ability to work safely.

Impairment (also known as unfit for duty/work) at any worksite can have severe consequences for not only the impaired worker, but also their co-workers, supervisor, and employer.

Impairment can come from fatigue, stress, illness, or the use of alcohol, illicit drugs, prescribed and over-the-counter medication.

Individuals do not often consider prescription or over-the-counter medication as something that could affect their ability to perform their work safely. Medication and the effects of illness can greatly impact whether or not an individual is fit to work that day. Employees must know to self-identify impairment and how to report their concerns according to the employer’s impairment policy.