Which substances are most commonly associated with workplace impairment?

The substances commonly associated with workplace impairment include alcohol, illicit drugs, prescription medications, and over-the-counter drugs. These substances have well-documented effects that can impair a person's ability to perform their job safely and effectively.

Alcohol can significantly reduce coordination, judgment, and reaction time. Illicit drugs vary widely in their effects, but many can lead to decreased cognitive function or altered perception, impacting an individual's job performance. Prescription medications are also critical to consider, as many can have side effects that impair thinking or physical abilities, such as certain pain relievers or sedatives. Over-the-counter drugs can also lead to impairment, particularly those that cause drowsiness or affect concentration.

In contrast, other options listed do not typically lead to significant impairment in workplace settings. For example, while nicotine and caffeine may have stimulating effects, they are less likely to impair the same way as the aforementioned substances. Sedatives and anti-anxiety medications alone do not encompass the broader range of impairing substances typically encountered in workplace scenarios, and vitamins and dietary supplements generally do not cause impairment. Hence, the second option encompasses a wider and more relevant range of substances commonly linked to workplace impairment.