An alarming number of issues arising from high kava consumption during work hours is an issue.

This has been brought to the attention of the Employment Ministry.

Minister responsible, Parveen Kumar made this revelation while opening the 2019 World Day of Safety and Health at Work in Lautoka.

Kumar has called on employees who consume Kava to ensure that it does not affect their productivity level at work.

“I mean I’m not saying you people should stop drinking grog but please do take care when drinking grog because it has been found now that this is a really issue that has been found at workplaces and that’s the report I’m getting from my team.”

Kumar says stress, lack of sleep, alcohol, cyber addiction and gambling were other major factors that contribute to an unhealthy workforce.

“They represent a major cause of accidents, fatal injuries, disease, absenteeism and presents at work. The government like its tripartite stakeholders, the trade unions and employer groups has a vested interest in minimizing the effects of an unhealthy and unproductive population.”

Those present were also reminded to balance work and life.