It’s Coming Home… But So Are the Risks

England are through the knockout stages!

The excitement is building. Pubs will be packed. Homes will become fan zones. Alarm clocks are being set for a 1am kick-off, and for many, Monday morning will arrive with very little sleep.

It’s part of what makes major sporting events so special.

But while the nation celebrates, employers have another responsibility.

They need to be prepared.

History tells us that major sporting events often lead to increased alcohol consumption and, for some, recreational drug use. Most people will celebrate responsibly, but for organisations operating in safety-critical environments, assumptions aren’t enough.

Construction. Transport. Manufacturing. Warehousing. Logistics. Utilities. The list goes on…

These industries don’t stop because England are playing.

The risks don’t disappear after the final whistle.

Employees may arrive at work fatigued after a late-night match. Some may still be under the influence of alcohol. Others may unknowingly be impaired by recreational drugs consumed over the weekend or during celebrations.

In these environments, impairment isn’t simply a wellbeing issue.

It’s a safety issue.

One poor decision, one delayed reaction or one moment of impaired judgement can have consequences far beyond the individual.

That’s why this is the time for organisations to review their drug and alcohol policies, remind employees of expectations and ensure testing programmes are ready.

Not because employers expect people to fail.

But because good organisations prepare before risk becomes reality.

Drug and alcohol testing isn’t about catching people out.

It’s about protecting colleagues, safeguarding the public, meeting legal responsibilities and creating workplaces where everyone gets home safely.

The World Cup should absolutely be celebrated.

But celebration and safety should never compete.

The best organisations understand they can do both.

As England prepare for another huge night, perhaps employers should ask themselves one question:

Are we only planning for the match, or are we also planning for the morning after?