Substance Abuse Policy

Published: 29.08.07 (Updated: 01.06.11)

Omega's AMU/HSE committee has decided that Omega should be an AKAN company, and consequently, the new Substance Abuse Policy has been introduced.

Download: Substance-Abuse-Policy.pdf

Introduction

In accordance with the existing HSE policy, Omega has now introduced a new Substance Abuse Policy.

Safe and responsible routines are the foundation for Omega's operations. Drug use and abuse increases the risk of accidents, absenteeism and poor work performance, it contributes to lower employee morale and weakens the company's reputation. For these reasons the AMU, in collaboration with AKAN, have formed these new guidelines.

What is AKAN?

AKAN is short for Arbeidslivets kompetansesenter for rus- og avhengighetsproblematikk (The resource center for substance abuse and addiction problems). It was established in 1963, and is a co-operative effort by Landsorganisasjonen (Norwegian Confederation of Trade Unions), NHO (Confederation of Norwegian Enterprise) and the Norwegian government.

AKAN's mission is to:

• preclude substance abuse problems in Norwegian working life
• ensure managers and employees are able to detect substance abuse
• contribute in assisting employees with potential substance abuse problems.

AKAN deals with substance use in connection with the work situation, and is not a temperance organization.

To find out more, visit AKAN's website (in Norwegian).

Why become an AKAN company?

The benefits of becoming an AKAN company are numerous. All employees will now know how the company will deal with substance use and abuse matters, and have access to Omega's Substance Abuse Policy. If an employee were to have a substance abuse problem, it is easier for the employee to contact the company for help and support, and if one is willing to seek treatment there will be no disciplinary action. Department Managers, the AKAN committee and the employee representatives are all on hand to assist employees - and are there to help rather than to judge.

Who are the people to contact?

If an issue should arise, the first person to contact is your Department Manager. If the Department Manager cannot be reached, the AKAN contact is the second contact person. The AMU/HSE committee has elected Jorunn Wathne, jorunn@omega.no, as the AKAN contact for Omega employees. All contact information can be found in Connect.