Risk factors for harmful alcohol consumption among employees and intervention strategies used in the workplace: current state of knowledge based on a literature review

Abstract

Introduction: Harmful alcohol consumption among employees is a significant public health problem, leading to adverse health and social outcomes, as well as impaired occupational functioning. Identifying risk factors and effective prevention strategies is crucial to address this issue in the workplace. The aim of this study was to analyze the main determinants of harmful alcohol use among employees and to assess the effectiveness of interventions in occupational settings. Methods: A literature review was conducted on studies published between 2020 and 2024. The PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched for international studies on workplace alcohol consumption and intervention strategies. Key risk factors, workplace interventions, and their effectiveness were analyzed. Inclusion criteria included peer-reviewed articles published in English, a focus on employees or the occupational context, and a clear analysis of risk factors or interventions addressing harmful alcohol consumption. Titles and abstracts were independently reviewed by two researchers, and any discrepancies were resolved by a third. Data on risk factors, types of interventions, target populations, and outcome measures were extracted and summarized in tables. Results: Key risk factors identified comprise high job strain, workplace-related stress, low social support, job insecurity, unfavorable organizational culture, and shift work. Harmful alcohol use was associated with increased risk of workplace accidents, absenteeism, and diminished productivity. Effective preventive approaches included the implementation of digital interventions (e.g., mobile health applications, online brief interventions), involvement of management in educational campaigns, organizational policy changes, and multi-level, sustained action plans. Interventions targeting both individual and organizational levels demonstrated the greatest potential for sustainable impact. Conclusion: Reducing harmful alcohol use in the workplace requires a comprehensive, multi-level approach tailored to organizational context and providing long-term employee support. Continued evaluation and adaptation of intervention strategies to specific workplace environments are recommended.