13.03.2025 - In a new survey conducted by Respons Analyse for the Akan Competence Center, 14% of Norwegian employees reported being less effective at work due to alcohol consumption the previous day. With more than 2.9 million employed individuals in Norway, this means that over 400,000 employees have experienced reduced work performance as a result of alcohol use.
Managers top the statistics
The data reveals that men (17%) are more likely to report decreased efficiency than women (9%), and that the age group 25–39 is the most affected. There are also significant differences between the private and public sectors, with 18% of private-sector employees acknowledging the issue compared to only 7% in the public sector. However, managers stand out, with a striking 24% admitting to reduced efficiency, compared to 11-15% among other employees, including middle managers, union representatives, and safety delegates.
"Managers more frequently participate in situations where alcohol is a natural part of the culture, such as business trips and corporate events. Additionally, higher education and income levels are associated with greater alcohol consumption," says Camilla Lynne Bakkeng, head of professional affairs and communications at the Akan Competence Center.
Costly inefficiency for the workplace
According to the report Societal Costs of Alcohol Consumption (Oslo Economics, 2022), absenteeism and reduced productivity due to alcohol cost society between 10 and 13 billion NOK annually. A report from Samfunnsøkonomisk Analyse (2017) estimates that absenteeism and inefficiency related to alcohol use cost the workplace at least 1.1 billion NOK per year. In addition to financial losses, problematic alcohol consumption can lead to safety risks, reputational damage, and a deteriorating work environment.
A clear policy makes a difference
Hangovers are an unnecessary cause of reduced workplace efficiency.
"It is not employees with alcohol problems who account for these costs, but rather those of us who drink 'normally' or more, simply because this group is the largest," says Lynne Bakkeng.
Many companies find that a clear and well-established alcohol policy serves as an important tool for raising awareness and fostering a workplace culture based on shared values.
"By avoiding hangovers at work, it also becomes easier to support those who are developing or already struggling with problematic alcohol use," concludes Camilla Lynne Bakkeng.
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