Posted By Shane Johnston Surely someone must have a view ? Should the employer implement a policy that thw workforce are happy with, even if the Unions representing that workforce are against the policy ?

Posted By Roger the Dodger Sounds like a typical TU response..... Provided you can demonstrate that you have consulted the Trade Unions properly and listened to their views - I would recommend adoption of the policy if the rest of the workforce are happy. Afterall it is these you are trying to protect. You have a duty to consult, but that does not mean you have to do everthing the TU wants. Also if you had an accident and alcohol played a part - I'm sure a court of law would not look too well on the case. Consult the TUs by all means, but don't let them stop YOU managing h&s issues - your company is vicariously liable for the actions of employees. It won't be the TU Rep in the dock, but they will be pursuing compensation claims for their injured members.... I would additionally have as part of your alcohol policy, that anybody with an alcohol problem will receive support to resolve their problems - tie the policy in with your HR policies, alcoholism can be considered a illness/disability.