Alcohol and the Job: Recognizing the Warning Signs of Workplace Addiction

For many union workers, the workplace is more than just a job—it’s a community built on trust, skill, and shared experiences. However, the demanding nature of many union jobs, including long hours, physical strain, and high stress, can sometimes lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms like alcohol use. While occasional drinking may seem harmless, workplace alcohol addiction can have serious consequences, affecting job performance, safety, and overall well-being.

Union workers often face unique pressures, including unpredictable schedules, physically demanding tasks, and the risk of injury. Alcohol is sometimes used as a way to unwind after a long day or manage pain, but when drinking becomes habitual or starts interfering with work, it can be a sign of addiction. Workplace culture can also play a role, with after-hours drinking or social events normalizing excessive alcohol consumption.

Recognizing the early warning signs of alcohol addiction in yourself or a co-worker can prevent serious consequences. Here are key indicators to watch for:

Showing up to work with signs of a hangover—such as fatigue, dehydration, or nausea—can indicate excessive drinking the night before. Chronic absenteeism due to “being sick” may also be a red flag.

Alcohol impairs coordination and judgment, making job sites more dangerous. A rise in workplace injuries, near-misses, or failure to follow safety protocols could point to alcohol use on or off the job.

Excessive drinking can lead to changes in temperament. Sudden irritability, aggression, depression, or withdrawal from co-workers may signal an underlying problem.

Missed deadlines, careless mistakes, decreased productivity, or an overall drop in work quality can result from alcohol dependence.

Some workers may attempt to hide alcohol use by drinking on lunch breaks or keeping alcohol in their vehicles. The smell of alcohol on a co-worker or frequent unexplained absences can indicate drinking during work hours.

If a co-worker becomes defensive or angry when asked about their drinking habits, it may indicate they are struggling with an alcohol problem.

If you suspect a co-worker is struggling with alcohol addiction, offering support rather than judgment can make a difference.

Instead of confronting them with accusations, express your concerns in a supportive way: “I’ve noticed you haven’t been yourself lately. Is everything okay?”

Many union workers have access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that provide addiction treatment resources. Let your co-worker know help is available without fear of job loss.

If alcohol use is putting safety at risk, it may be necessary to report the issue to a supervisor or union representative.

Alcohol addiction in the workplace is a serious issue, but with the right support, recovery is possible. Union Recovery Services provides specialized treatment programs tailored to the needs of union workers, ensuring they get the help they need while maintaining their careers.

If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol use on the job, don’t wait. Seeking help is a sign of strength, and there are resources available to support you on the path to recovery.