What substances are prohibited in any work area?

Intoxicating beverages and controlled drugs are prohibited in any work area primarily to ensure the safety and well-being of all employees. The use of these substances can impair judgment, reaction times, and overall performance, which poses significant risks in a workplace, especially in environments that may involve heavy machinery, hazardous materials, or high-stakes tasks. Maintaining a drug-free workplace helps prevent accidents and injuries, promotes a safe working environment, and ensures that all employees can carry out their duties effectively.

The other options, while they might have restrictions in certain contexts (such as food and drink policies in clean rooms), typically do not pose the same level of risk as intoxicating substances. Controlled drugs and alcohol can lead to severe safety violations, while the presence of food and water is often allowed under specific guidelines to ensure employee health and hydration. Similarly, tobacco products might be regulated but are not outright banned in all work areas unless specified by company policy. In contrast, the prohibition of intoxicating beverages and controlled drugs is a more universally acknowledged standard in work area safety regulations.