More than four in ten UK workers admit to turning up to work while hungover or still under the influence of alcohol, raising concerns about a spike in presenteeism around the May bank holidays.
A nationally representative survey found that 42 percent of employees had attended work after drinking, with many reporting a significant drop in performance.
The data suggests the impact is not just anecdotal: workers who admitted attending work under the influence rated themselves as 39 percent less effective than usual, revealing a notable drag on productivity.
The findings come from addiction-treatment provider Rehabs UK, which has warned that May is becoming a “danger month” for alcohol-related workplace issues, particularly around the Early May bank holiday on May 4 and the Spring bank holiday on May 25.
Productivity hit comes at a cost
The wider impact is already being felt across the economy. The Institute of Alcohol Studies estimates that working while hungover or under the influence costs the UK between £1.2 billion and £1.4 billion each year.
Despite having the same number of bank holidays as April, May sees an additional 12 million servings of alcohol consumed compared with the monthly average, making it one of the heaviest drinking periods of the year.
Online search behaviour reflects the pattern, with searches for “alcohol poisoning symptoms” rising by 22 percent and “hangover cures” increasing by 20 percent compared with April.
Signs of harm often overlooked
Lester Morse, founder and director of Rehabs UK, said the social nature of bank holiday drinking could make it harder for employers to recognise when behaviour becomes harmful. “Because drinking is so deeply ingrained in our celebrations, it can often mask the early signs of dependency,” he said.
He warned that risky behaviour is frequently dismissed as normal. “With ‘boozy nights out’ seen to be socially acceptable during these long weekends, dangerous behaviours, like drinking to the point of blackout, can be dismissed as just having a good time.”
Morse added that alcohol-related harm is not limited to dependency. “Many people who die from alcohol-related diseases are everyday people who regularly exceed the recommended maximum.”
UK health guidance advises that regularly exceeding 14 units a week increases the risk of long-term health problems.
Health risks extend beyond hangovers
Short-term effects such as fatigue and reduced concentration can affect performance immediately, but repeated heavy drinking can also lead to longer-term health issues.
Morse said employers should be aware of physical warning signs. “If an employee is experiencing symptoms like persistent heartburn, heart palpitations or even frequent colds, their immune system and organs may be under significant stress.”
He added that more serious symptoms should not be ignored. “If they notice more severe signs, such as jaundice or dark urine, they need to seek professional advice immediately.”
The organisation identifies a spectrum of drinking behaviours, ranging from casual use to regular binge drinking and dependency, with higher-risk groups more likely to need professional support.
Presenteeism risk rises during peak social periods
Alcohol-related presenteeism can be difficult to manage, particularly during periods when heavy drinking is socially accepted. Unlike absence, where issues are visible, presenteeism often goes unnoticed while still affecting performance, safety and team dynamics.
Clear absence policies, open conversations and access to support services can help employers respond effectively, particularly during high-risk periods such as repeated bank holiday weekends.
With May bringing multiple long weekends and increased social activity, observers say the impact of alcohol on both wellbeing and workplace performance is likely to become more visible.
William Furney is a Managing Editor at Black and White Trading Ltd based in Kingston upon Hull, UK. He is a prolific author and contributor at Workplace Wellbeing Professional, with over 127 published posts covering HR, employee engagement, and workplace wellbeing topics. His writing focuses on contemporary employment issues including pension schemes, employee health, financial struggles affecting workers, and broader workplace trends.
- William Furney
- William Furney
- William Furney
- William Furney
