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A survey of the views of senior managers on the consumption of alcohol by staff at health authority social occasions

THE issue of alcohol consumption by staff at health authority informal social occasions has received little attention in publications about the introduction of workplace alcohol policies. Research carried out in Oldham Health Authority sought to identify managers' views on this issue, both in terms of present practice, and the implications for them as managers if a statement on this issue was included in an alcohol policy for the authority. The results indicated that there were already considerable informal social norms governing alcohol consumption at parties, particuarly related to staff concern to maintain their professional image and responsibilities. While the policy would clarify managerial duties and powers, there were some concerns that a ban on alcohol could be disruptive to staff morale. This paper concludes by highlighting the legal response to such matters, and offers a number of points health authorities may wish to consider.