Događaj je održan 28. aprila, na Svjetski dan sigurnosti i zdravlja na radu, čime je dodatno naglašena važnost sistemskog pristupa zaštiti zdravlja zaposlenih i stvaranju sigurnih radnih uslova. Aktivnost predstavlja nastavak zajedničkih inicijativa u oblasti prevencije ovisnosti u radnom okruženju.

Prezentacija i obuka okupile su učesnice i učesnike iz šest različitih gradova Zeničko-dobojskog kantona, iz ustanova sistema socijalne zaštite, zdravstva, sigurnosti i obrazovanja, ističući bitnost uključivanja privatnog sektora u ovakve aktivnosti. Jedna od tačaka današnjih diskusija je bila i bitnost podizanja svijesti menadžment nivoa u privatnom sektoru o bitnosti prevencije i značaja zdravog radnog okruženja.

U uvodnom dijelu prisutnima se obratio Amir Hasanović, izvršni direktor Stručnog centra, ističući značaj partnerstva između stručnih organizacija, institucija i poslodavaca u razvoju održivih rješenja za zdravo radno okruženje.

Poseban doprinos dala je prof. dr. sc. prim. Aida Ramić – Čatak, dr. med., pomoćnica ravnatelja za medicinske poslove i voditeljica Sektora javnog zdravstva Zavoda za javno zdravstvo Federacije BiH, koja je predstavila rezultate istraživanja o nadzoru i zaštiti zdravlja zaposlenika u radnom okruženju u Federaciji BiH, naglašavajući ključne izazove i preporuke za unapređenje prakse.

Program obuke bio je usmjeren na konkretne potrebe poslodavaca, a učesnici su kroz interaktivne sesije imali priliku upoznati praktične alate za prepoznavanje i rješavanje problema u radnom okruženju – uključujući teme ovisnosti, mentalnog zdravlja i organizacijske podrške zaposlenima.

Obuku je vodila Ileana Šnur – Muratagić, stručna saradnica na programu prevencije ovisnosti u radnom okruženju, koja je kroz predavanja i radionice obradila ključna pitanja vezana za ulogu poslodavaca i kolega u očuvanju zdravlja zaposlenih, kao i važnost uvođenja strukturiranih programa unapređenja zdravlja.

Poseban fokus stavljen je na predstavljanje sveobuhvatnog programa koji poslodavcima nudi jasne korake – od procjene stanja, preko edukacije i razvoja internih politika, do implementacije i praćenja rezultata. Na kraju događaja svim učesnicama i učesnicima uručeni su certifikati o učešću.

Poruka događaja je jasna: ulaganje u zdravo radno okruženje nije trošak, već strateška investicija koja doprinosi produktivnosti, zadovoljstvu zaposlenih i dugoročnoj održivosti organizacija i kompanija.

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The event brought together heads of departments and representatives of human resources units from various institutions, companies, and organizations focused on improving employee health, preventing risks, and fostering a better working environment. The aim of the presentation and training was to familiarize participants with the key principles of employee health protection and emphasize the importance of implementing preventive programs in the workplace.

The training was led by Ileana Šnur–Muratagić, graduate social worker and professional associate for workplace prevention programs at the Addiction Prevention Competence Centre, and Prof. Dr. Aida Ramić–Čatak, MD, Assistant Director for Professional Affairs at the Institute of Public Health of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

What was presented?

During the introductory session, experts from the Addiction Prevention Competence Centre and the Institute of Public Health of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina presented the goals of the program aimed at promoting health in the workplace, preventing the use of psychoactive substances, and strengthening mutual support among employees. It was emphasized that introducing this type of intervention within organizations leads to measurable positive changes in employee behavior, increased work efficiency, and reduced operational costs. Research data were also presented, showing that every convertible mark invested in employee well-being yields multiple benefits for employers.

In addition, through interactive workshops, participants gained practical knowledge on how to recognize and respond to cases of addiction-related issues in the workplace, as well as why it is important to systematically develop Workplace Health Promotion Programs.

What do organizations gain?

• A healthier and safer working environment
• Higher productivity and lower costsHigher productivity and lower costs
• Strengthened reputation through socially responsible business practices
• A more positive and motivating work atmosphere

At the end of the event, all participants were awarded certificates of successful completion.

*Healthy working environment for all! is a workplace addiction prevention and health promotion program that provides support to management representatives and human resources departments, implemented by the Addiction Prevention Competence Centre. Detailed information on how to join the program is available here.

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The presentation and training will be held on Thursday, November 27, 2025, at the Radon Plaza in Sarajevo.

The number of participants is limited, as the Presentation and Training are FREE OF CHARGE. You may register via this link or by email ileana.snur.muratagic@prevencija.b

Up to two (2) representatives per institution/company/organization may apply no later than Monday, November 24, 2025. All participants will receive a Certificate of Completion.

The event agenda is available here.

About the program

The program Healthy working environment for all! is designed as a comprehensive approach to workplace health promotion, with a focus on preventing the use of psychoactive substances, strengthening mutual support among colleagues, and creating a safe and supportive working environment.

By introducing such interventions into the workplace, organizations can achieve concrete positive changes in employee behavior and an increase in overall work efficiency. Research shows that every convertible mark invested in employee health and safety generates multiple benefits for employers.

Why get involved?

By participating in the training, your organization gains:

a healthier and safer working environment, with support for employees in maintaining their health

higher productivity and lower operational costs

enhanced company reputation through socially responsible business practices

a more positive workplace climate

The post Call for Institutions and Companies in Sarajevo Canton appeared first on Prevencija.ba.

The event took place at the premises of the Institute of Public Health of FBiH in Sarajevo and brought together experts from the fields of public health, labour and social policy, addiction prevention, as well as representatives of the media and other relevant institutions. The aim of the event was to raise awareness about the importance of investing in employee health and safety, which in the long term contributes to increased productivity, reduced economic losses, and the sustainability of organizations.

As part of the programme, the Results of the Research on Monitoring and Protection of Employee Health in FBiH were presented, with a particular focus on the issue of addiction. During the panel discussion, participants addressed the importance of implementing preventive measures in the workplace, especially for employees working under challenging conditions or in positions involving increased health risks. Participants exchanged opinions and examples of good practice, including international experiences in the field of prevention, such as workplace smoking cessation programmes.

The round table was preceded by a mini campaign titled Professionalism Has No Promille. You Have Responsibility aimed at sensitizing employers to the creation of a healthy and safe working environment, as well as influencing employees’ attitudes and behaviours regarding the consumption of alcohol and other psychoactive substances in the workplace.,

Investing in preventive programmes, both within the healthcare system and in the workplace, represents a long-term investment in human capital and organizational stability. Prevention not only reduces the costs of treatment and sick leave but also contributes to fostering a culture of health, safety, and responsibility among employees. The workplace, as a setting where adults spend a significant portion of their day, is an ideal environment for implementing educational and preventive activities that can have a substantial impact on both individuals and the collective.

*Healthy Work Environment for All! is an addiction prevention and workplace health promotion programme that provides support to management representatives and human resources departments. The programme is implemented by the Addiction Prevention Competence Centre. More detailed information on how to join the programme is available here.

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Substance misuse can lead to numerous negative consequences for employees: absenteeism, lateness, fatigue, job loss, illness, and increased healthcare costs. In addition, the presence of psychoactive substances in the workplace negatively impacts safety, increases stress levels, and worsens interpersonal relationships and overall morale – both for those who use substances and for those who do not.

Although no profession is insignificant, this situation is particularly concerning in occupations where employees are responsible for the health and safety of others, as the use of psychoactive substances in such cases can have serious, even life-threatening consequences.

According to estimates, between 5% and 20% of the working population in Europe experience serious problems related to alcohol or drug use. Such problems increase the risk of workplace injuries, incidents, impaired work ethics, and can lead to reduced productivity, lower quality of services, and work-related errors.

The causes of alcohol or drug use at work are often linked to occupational, social, and personal factors. Occupational factors include physically demanding and unpleasant working conditions (cold environments, prolonged standing, extreme effort), job dissatisfaction, irregular working hours, and shift work. Social factors include limited support from colleagues, restricted decision-making autonomy, and stressful working conditions. Employees in high-pressure and competitive environments sometimes resort to various substances to enhance cognitive performance and increase work efficiency.

Prevention in the workplace is just as important as in any other life setting. Organizations, institutions, and companies should invest in the health and well-being of their employees. Research shows that the return on investment in occupational safety and health is approximately double for employers.

In addition to health benefits, there are strong economic reasons for maintaining high levels of worker protection. The costs of work-related accidents and illnesses to the EU economy amount to more than 3.3% of GDP annually – around €460 billion (2019 estimate). Although the true cost to human well-being is immeasurable, good practice in occupational safety and health contributes to greater productivity, competitiveness, and organizational sustainability.

*Through the campaign “Professionalism Has No Promille. You Have Responsibility,” the Association for Addiction Prevention NARKO-NE and the Institute of Public Health of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina aim to raise employers’ awareness about creating healthy work environments and to influence employees’ attitudes, norms, and behaviours regarding alcohol consumption in the workplace.

*The campaign visuals depict professions that significantly impact the health and well-being of others, which is why responsible behaviour without the use of psychoactive substances is of crucial importance. For the purposes of the campaign, only one gender is shown in certain professions for simplicity, although it clearly refers to all genders.

Ileana Šnur-Muratagić

Read more: How to Help a Colleague if You Notice They Are Misusing Alcohol in the Workplace

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Being concerned about a colleague who is showing changes in behaviour can be difficult, especially if you suspect alcohol or other psychoactive substance misuse. Although you are not responsible for solving the problem, as a colleague you still have an important role.

Colleagues are often the first to notice when someone on the team is struggling with addiction. The key is to offer support, suggest change, and maintain your own boundaries. Long-term tolerance of the problem or taking over someone else’s responsibilities can enable unhealthy patterns to deepen.

Excessive alcohol or drug use, as well as other addictive behaviours, are often linked to relationship difficulties, financial debt, health problems, or legal issues. Experience shows that the environment surrounding a person with addiction often reacts in similar ways: talking about the person rather than to them; covering up mistakes; looking the other way; minimizing the seriousness of the situation. Although driven by good intentions, such reactions can make the problem worse.

It is not uncommon for a person confronted about a potential problem to deny it, minimize it, become defensive, or avoid further contact. Do not let this discourage you – an active and constructive approach is far more likely to lead to positive change than ignoring the issue.

What You Can Do:

-Do not take over their tasks or cover up their mistakes.
-Protect your own stress limits and do not allow yourself to be overwhelmed by someone else’s problems.
-Speak openly and collegially – share your observations, express concern, and offer support.
-If the situation does not improve, contact a supervisor, the HR department, or an internal counsellor.
-If someone is under the influence of alcohol or drugs at work and endangers others – immediately inform a supervisor.
-Do not make diagnoses – focus on specific behaviours and their impact on the team and work environment.

Misuse of psychoactive substances can occur in any profession. In occupations that directly affect the health and safety of others, absolute sobriety is essential. Employees who endanger themselves or others must be removed from the workplace.

Unlike managers, employees generally do not have a legal obligation to intervene, unless there is a direct risk to others or to the company – in such cases, there may be a duty to report out of loyalty to the employer. Regardless of legal aspects, an honest conversation and an expression of concern can be an important catalyst for change. Ultimately, responsibility always lies with the person who has the problem. As a colleague, you can be an important source of support, but you are not responsible for solving the issue. Protect your own boundaries, seek help when needed, and act in a timely manner – in the interest of the entire team.

How to Prepare for the Conversation?

Talking about a potential addiction is sensitive and requires preparation:
-Write down your specific observations.
-Plan how you will start the conversation.
-Ensure a safe and calm environment.
-Use phrases such as: I am concerned because…, I’ve noticed that something has changed…

Do not expect immediate change. Offer support, but do not take on the role of a therapist – remain in your role as a colleague. If there is no improvement after the conversation, the situation worsens, or you feel excessive personal stress, contact a supervisor, HR, or professional advisers. If you notice progress, acknowledge and encourage your colleague, but be aware that relapse is possible. Continue offering support without taking over responsibility.
Remember, even well-intentioned reactions can unintentionally worsen the situation. Common pitfalls include assuming responsibility instead of the person with the problem, covering up mistakes, and justifying behaviour. Such actions can reinforce addictive patterns and damage team dynamics.

Ileana Šnur-Muratagić

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The development of such problems may be influenced by factors such as easy access to alcohol or drugs, poor working conditions, high levels of stress, and an organizational culture that tolerates substance use. Therefore, it is essential for companies to identify their specific challenges and introduce measures aimed at improving the work environment, thereby reducing the risk of addiction.

Successful organizations develop comprehensive policies that include prevention, education, treatment, rehabilitation, and reintegration of employees experiencing addiction-related difficulties. These policies are not based on punishment, but on the understanding that addiction is a health issue that requires support and treatment.
Managers and supervisors should be trained to recognize early warning signs and to know how to respond if they suspect alcohol or drug misuse. While large companies often have access to specialists and human resources departments, in smaller enterprises this role is frequently assumed by the director or manager. Regardless of the size of the organization, however, a clear psychoactive substance policy brings numerous benefits – from a safer work environment to increased productivity.

Including addiction prevention within broader workplace health promotion programs can further enhance employee engagement. Employees’ health is not just a private matter – it is the responsibility of the entire organization. Prevention, education, and support are key steps toward creating a safe, productive, and responsible work environment.
A comprehensive approach to addiction prevention begins with a written addiction prevention policy. It should be clearly communicated to all employees, regardless of position, and should define rules and consequences of violations, with an emphasis on promoting health, safety, and mutual understanding.

A written policy document defines the organization’s position regarding the use of psychoactive substances in the workplace and represents a responsible approach to this issue and to employees’ health.

Healthy Work Environment for All! is an addiction prevention and workplace health promotion program that provides support to management representatives and human resources departments. It is implemented by the Association for Addiction Prevention NARKO-NE. Detailed information on how to join the program is available here.

Ileana Šnur-Muratagić

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With this in mind, the Association for Addiction Prevention NARKO-NE, in cooperation with the Public Health Institute of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, organized a presentation and training titled Together for a Healthy Work Environment! on April 28, 2025.

The event took place in Sarajevo, at the Hills Hotel, and brought together department heads and human resources representatives from various institutions and companies. The goal of this gathering was to acquaint participants with the key principles of employee health protection and the importance of implementing preventive programs in the workplace.

The training was led by Ileana Šnur–Muratagić, a certified social worker and expert associate for workplace prevention programs at NARKO-NE, and Prof. Dr. Aida Ramić–Čatak, Assistant Director for Professional Affairs at the Public Health Institute of FBiH.

Professor Ramić–Čatak presented the results of research on employee health surveillance and protection, highlighting that as many as 40% of employees report that a poor work environment negatively affects their health. She emphasized that such problems do not only impact individuals but also the entire company through increased staff turnover, decreased efficiency, and other challenges that ultimately threaten organizational stability.

During the training, participants engaged in interactive workshops where they acquired practical knowledge on how to recognize and respond to addiction-related problems in the workplace, and why it is important to systematically develop Workplace Health Promotion Programs.

Participant Renata Lačević, a smoking cessation educator in the workplace, shared her impressions of the training and her thoughts on the topic:

It was very useful to hear the research findings and understand how prevalent addiction issues are in the workplace. I found the workshop particularly interesting, where we learned how to properly handle situations involving addiction problems at work. We often think it’s our personal responsibility to help a colleague, but in fact, there are professionals and management we can and should turn to in such cases. I believe these trainings are extremely important because they make us aware that programs exist to raise awareness about these issues and ultimately work on reducing them.

Through this event, the NARKO-NE Association and the Public Health Institute of FBiH reaffirmed their commitment to creating safer and healthier workplaces and announced the continuation of activities aimed at prevention and the promotion of employee health.

Anisa Čelik Raščić

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The training is intended for department heads and representatives of Human Resources departments. The presentation and training will take place on Monday, April 28, 2025, at Hotel Hills, Ilidža, Sarajevo. The number of participants is limited, and participation is free of charge. You can register via this link or by sending an email to ileana.snur.muratagic@prevencija.ba. Each organization may register up to two participants from their institution/company/organization, no later than April 24, 2025. All participants who attend will receive a certificate. The event agenda is available here.

About the Program:
The program Healthy Work Environment for All! is designed as a comprehensive approach to workplace health promotion, focusing on the prevention of psychoactive substance use, strengthening peer support among colleagues, and creating a safe and encouraging environment.
The introduction of such interventions in the workplace leads to concrete positive behavioral changes among employees and an increase in overall work efficiency. Research shows that every convertible mark invested in employee health and safety brings multiple returns to employers.

Why participate?
By taking part in the training, your organization gains:
– a healthier and safer work environment, with support for employees in maintaining their health
– increased productivity and reduced operational costs
– enhanced company reputation through socially responsible business practices
– a more positive workplace atmosphere

The post Call for Institutions and Companies in Sarajevo Canton appeared first on Prevencija.ba.

The training is intended for heads of departments and representatives of Human Resources departments. The presentation and training will take place on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at Hotel Hills, Ilidža, Sarajevo. The number of participants is limited, and participation in the presentation and training is free of charge. You can register here or via email at ileana.snur.muratagic@prevencija.ba. Each institution/company/organization may register up to two participants until February 24, 2025.

All participants who attend the presentation and training will receive a certificate. The agenda for the event is available here.

About the Program
Workplace interventions lead to visible changes in employee behavior and work performance. Beyond the health benefits for employees, assessments indicate that for every convertible mark invested in workplace safety and health, the return on investment for employers is approximately double.

Healthy Work Environment for All! is a preventive health promotion program focusing on the workplace, social interaction, and collegial support, as well as the individual use of psychoactive substances. The comprehensive approach to psychoactive substance use in the workplace is not aimed at punishment but rather at preventing the occurrence or escalation of substance use. When necessary, it also facilitates the identification of employees who use psychoactive substances, access to treatment, and reintegration into the workplace.

What Does a Company Gain by Participating in the Program?
Healthy and safe working conditions, support for employees in maintaining their health
Increased productivity and reduced costs
A positive corporate image
An improved work atmosphere

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