BOOZE SORRY NOW; 50% of bosses have disciplined staff on drink Study chief warns of danger in the workplace.

Byline: BY CLAIRE BRENNAN 

HALF of Irish bosses have disciplined workers for knocking back too much booze during breaks, it has been revealed.

A study of 1,500 employers and employees found eight out of 10 have a liquid lunch at least once a week.

The research, carried out by Peninsula Ireland, also revealed 70 per cent of companies do not have an alcohol policy in place.

Study chief Alan Price thinks the findings spell trouble for workplaces around the country.

He said: "Employers need to take a tough stance and tackle the problem head on.

"Employees who are under the influence of alcohol are not in a fit state to perform their duties and this has an adverse effect on productivity."

Mr Price claimed booze-filled workers are a danger to themselves and their colleagues.

He added: "Employers need to understand the health and safety implications of allowing an employee to be under the influence of alcohol in the workplace.

"They pose a potential danger not only to themselves but also to their workmates and the problem is especially shocking considering some of the industries that were questioned.

"It is potentially life-threatening in jobs where heavy machinery is used. Irish employees should remember they are getting paid to do a job and realise it is inappropriate to consume alcohol."

70% COMPANIES DON'T HAVE POLICY ON ALCOHOL