Implicaciones psico-legales del consumo de alcohol y otras drogas en el ámbito laboral

Zusammenfassung

In this article, the consumption of alcohol and other drugs in the working population and its possible consequences with regard to the Spanish legislation are analyzed. The most relevant data concerning the prevalence of use, conditions that favor consumption, and associated effects are taken into account. Consumption of these substances in the working population is much higher than in the general population and this has a negative affect on health, workers’ safety, and company interests (accidents, absenteeism, labor instability, and unproductive behaviors). Changes in legislation that regulate the consumption of alcohol and other drugs in the work setting are analyzed, and compliance with the legal preventive-assistance measures is proposed as an appropriate strategy to deal with the problem. The psychology professional can contribute useful methods and techniques in research, prevention, and treatment of this phenomenon from a multidisciplinary framework. Knowledge of the regulating framework is necessary to achieve these goals.