ALCOHOL, MEDICATION AND DRUG ABUSE

Aircraft engineers alcohol limit

20 mg / 100 ml of blood.

Analgesics

• generally considered safe if used as directed.

• consider whether the pain or discomfort they are trying to treat (e.g., headache or sore throat) could be the symptom of an underlying illness needing proper medical attention.

Antibiotics

Many antibiotics have short-term or delayed effects that hinder work performance.

they are used to treat infections which often render a person unfit and the effects of antibiotics can exacerbate this further.

Antihistamines

• treat colds and allergies such as hay fever.

• tend to make the user feel drowsy - so stay away from work

Cough Suppressants

safe in normal use, but engineers must exercise caution about taking over-the-counter products containing antihistamines

Decongestants

Reported side effects include anxiety, tremors, rapid pulse, and headaches.

Pep Pills

used to maintain wakefulness, alertness, and energy levels.

“The use of ‘pep’ pills whilst working cannot be permitted. If coffee is insufficient, you are not fit for work”.

Sleeping Tablets

antihistamine-based. They tend to slow reaction times and generally dull the senses.

Melatonin

natural hormone that is claimed to aid sleep by promoting the re-synchronisation of disrupted circadian rhythms. - currently unproven,

pep pills vs caffeine quote

“The use of ‘pep’ pills whilst working cannot be permitted. If coffee is insufficient, you are not fit for work”.