Stay below the recommended daily intake for alcohol

Over the last decade alcohol consumption in the UK has increased by 23%, with the greatest rate of increase occurring in young adults and underage drinkers. Among young adults, binge drinking and drunkenness are common and for many, these are regarded as acceptable behaviours. However, the majority of older drinkers do not regard drunkenness as acceptable. (NHS Health Scotland)

The moderate consumption of alcohol is associated with a reduction in cardiovascular risk and better mental health but many Scots drink to excess and experience serious health (physical and mental), social or legal consequences. (NHS Health Scotland)

Between 1997/98 and 2003/04 there was a 47% increase in hospital admissions for alcoholic liver disease and since 1980 there has been a 240% increase in alcohol-related deaths (NHS Health Scotland)

Alcohol-related industries makes a significant contribution to the Scottish economy, employing about 155,000 people (6% of total employment in Scotland) and at a UK level, alcohol taxes raise 7.298 million (7% of Customs and Excise revenue).

However, in 2001, the economic costs of alcohol for Scotland were estimated to be 1.1 billion per annum.

Sensible drinking guidelines for men are to consume no more than 3-4 units per day (regularly drinking 4 or more units per day increases the risk to your health) Women – no more than 2-3 units per day (regularly drinking 3 or more units per day increases the risk to your health)

• The strength (ABV) and volume of what you drink affects how many units it contains. Calculate the number of units by multiplying the volume (in ml) by the percentage ABV and then divide by 1000.
• Drugs can interfere with your ability to drive – and it’s not just illegal drugs like cannabis and ecstasy.
• Prescribed medicines and some over the counter remedies can also impair driving.
• Some strong painkillers, tranquillisers, epilepsy or sleeping medications, as well as hay fever and cold remedies can cause drowsiness.
• Get advice from your GP or pharmacist.

In the workplace, there should be guidelines surrounding alcohol use.  Some alcohol statistics in the workplace:

• 75% of problem drinkers are in employment
• 25% of accidents are reported as being alcohol-related
• 6-14 million working days in the UK are estimated to be lost each year due to alcohol-related sickness absence
• Employers are required under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and The Transport and Works act 1992 to address the issue of alcohol in the workplace.
• Employers and employees can benefit from a good alcohol policy:
  • fair and consistent procedures
  • health education
  • assistance for those with alcohol problems.

Alcohol and Drugs policies are assessed as part of the silver award criteria for Health Working Lives.