It was found that 1 in 3 Americans (32%) are drinking alcohol while working from home during the current COVID-19 lockdown, according to a new study. One wonders what the South African statistics would be?
With many South Africans still working from home, our everyday habits have drastically changed to accommodate our new daily routines. Does this new way of work have an impact on employee policies?
Just because your employer may not physically be able to see you, labour laws and company policies still apply – and that includes the consumption of alcohol and drugs while on duty, according to Aadil Patel, national head of the employment law practice at Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr. “The Occupational Health and Safety Act; General Regulations states that subject to the provisions of sub regulation (3), no person at a workplace shall be under the influence of or have in his or her possession or partake of or offer any other person intoxicating liquor or drugs. Even though you’re working from home and employers may not physically see you, if suspicions are raised, normal disciplinary procedures are expected to be followed,” Patel shares.
“You may be tempted to reward yourself in between Zoom meetings while working from home but think twice before reaching for a glass while you are still on the clock,” he advises.
Click here to read the media article.
Click here to listen to an interview with Bongani Masuku, Director in Employment Practice from Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr
