The Dealing with Drug and Alcohol Abuse for Employees in Construction Environments course provides essential awareness training for anyone working on or around a construction site. Substance abuse is a major concern in the industry, affecting worker safety, judgment, performance, and overall wellbeing. With millions of adults in the U.S. using illegal drugs, misusing prescriptions, or engaging in binge drinking, substance abuse issues can directly impact jobsite safety and productivity.

This course explains how drug and alcohol misuse affects a worker’s ability to think clearly, operate equipment safely, and maintain professional behaviour. Learners explore the warning signs of misuse, how dependency develops, and why substance abuse creates risks not just for individuals but for entire teams. The course also reviews workplace policies, the importance of maintaining a drug- and alcohol-free jobsite, and steps workers can take to seek help or support coworkers who may be struggling.

Substance abuse is a significant safety issue on construction sites, where impaired judgment or coordination can quickly lead to serious incidents. Understanding how drugs and alcohol affect the body, how dependency forms, and what workplace policies require helps employees make safer decisions and contribute to a healthier work environment. This course provides foundational knowledge to support safer, more responsible jobsite behaviour.

Substances That Are Often Abused

• Identify commonly misused drugs and substances
• Understand their effects on behaviour and performance

Alcohol, Marijuana, and Other Depressants

• Learn how depressants impair coordination and decision-making
• Review risks associated with use on construction sites

Stimulants and Narcotics

• Understand how stimulants and opioids affect the body
• Learn why these substances are especially dangerous in high-risk environments

How People Get “Hooked”

• Explore the factors that lead to drug or alcohol dependency
• Understand how misuse can escalate over time

Drug Dependency

• Learn the signs and stages of addiction
• Understand the physical and psychological impacts

Becoming a Substance Abuser

• Recognize patterns and behaviours that signal developing problems
• Learn how abuse affects workplace safety and relationships

Alcohol and Drug Policies

• Review typical construction workplace policies and expectations
• Understand consequences for violations and reporting procedures

Overcoming Substance Abuse

• Explore resources and support options
• Learn steps that help workers seek assistance and recovery

And More

• Additional guidance on promoting a drug-free workplace
• Tools for recognizing and addressing unsafe behaviours

This online Dealing with Drug and Alcohol Abuse for Employees in Construction Environments course takes approximately 30 minutes to complete. Learners may start, pause, and resume at any time.

A passing score of 80% is required to complete the course. Participants have up to three attempts to achieve a passing grade. Printable resources, including a comprehensive student manual, are provided to support knowledge retention and future reference.

Upon successful completion, learners can download and print a digital certificate confirming their understanding of drug and alcohol awareness in construction environments.