Attitudes of a select group of public service employees to the use and abuse of drugs

Abstract

The harmful effects of drug abuse are well documented. In addition, persons under the effects of drugs may have their health and judgement impaired to such an extent that they may increase the rate of an accident/injury. Local studies on the extent of drug use among workers are scarce. Although in Malta drugs are illegal, their use is increasing. This study aimed at assessing the attitudes of a select, contained group of public service employees on the use and abuse of drugs. The results obtained by means of a questionnaire showed that overall, the population being studied did not find the use of drugs as acceptable, although occasional use was viewed less seriously than regular use. Respondents, as a whole, viewed drugs as having a negative effect on the volume and quality of work achieved and also, on the risk of accidents I injuries. Besides, more than 12% of respondents admitted to having made use of marijuana at some time in the past, while no one admitted to 'hard' drug use. The study also explored the abuse of medicinal, which may also effect the health of users.