What are common indicators of impairment to watch for?

• A. Punctuality and neat appearance.
• B. Clear memory and calm behavior.
• C. Loud voice.
• D. Slurred speech, unsteady gait, confusion, dilated pupils, poor judgment, and unusual behavior; report immediately.

Answer: (D)

Recognizing impairment involves noticing a combination of physical, cognitive, and behavioral changes that suggest the person may not be fit to perform duties safely. Slurred speech and an unsteady gait point to motor coordination problems often produced by intoxication or a medical issue. Confusion and poor judgment indicate cognitive impairment, meaning the person may misinterpret situations or make unsafe decisions. Dilated pupils can be a clue to certain drug use or medical conditions, and unusual behavior signals a significant deviation from normal functioning. When these signs appear together, they create a strong safety concern, so the appropriate action is to report immediately to a supervisor to ensure the situation is handled promptly and properly.

Punctuality and neat appearance aren’t themselves indicators of impairment, as someone can be on time and well-groomed yet impaired. Clear memory and calm behavior suggest functioning is normal, not impaired. A loud voice might reflect a range of causes and, by itself, doesn’t reliably indicate impairment.