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Criterion HS314

Adults providing education and care must not use, or be under the influence of, alcohol or any other substance that has a detrimental effect on their functioning or behaviour while responsible for children participating in the service.

Guidance

How to show you are complying

Hospital-based services must plan ahead for how they would respond if an adult staff member providing education or care is found to be under the influence of alcohol or other substances that affect their behaviour or performance. This is a staff management matter and should be handled according to established procedures.

Staff must follow the hospital’s employment policy on alcohol. All team members should be familiar with this policy and know who to report any concerns or possible breaches to.

When assessing whether you comply with HS314

Questions we are likely to ask

  • How do you make sure no-one uses, or is under the influence of, alcohol or any other substance during hours of operation?

  • What would you do if someone arrived at your service and was under the influence of, alcohol or any other substance during hours of operation?

Maintaining a safe and professional environment for children is essential. Anyone under the influence of alcohol or other substances may have impaired judgment or behaviour, which poses risks to children’s wellbeing and disrupts the quality of care.