Substance Use Policies
In preparation for cannabis legalization, workplaces should consider reviewing their substance use policies.
Cannabis is the most commonly found substance in workplace drug testing. With upcoming legalization, rates of cannabis use may increase. Substance use in the workplace can lead to:
- Absenteeism or not being ‘mentally present’
- Cognitive impairments
- Chronic diseases
- Injuries and accidents
- Fatalities
(Source: CCSA presentation and webinar)
The following are some aspects that should be considered when developing a substance use workplace policy:
- Alcohol/cannabis & illegal drugs
- Prescriptions (includes medical cannabis)
- Screening/testing procedures
- Termination procedures
- Non-compliance procedures
- Treatment/support
- Return-to-work program and monitoring
- Accommodation
(Source: CCSA presentation and webinar)
Resources
- Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety. Workplace Strategies: Risk of Impairment from Cannabis
- Atlantic Canada Council on Addiction: Problematic Substance Use That Impacts the Workplace. A Step-by-Step Guide & Toolkit to Addressing it in Your Business/Organization
- Human Resources Professionals Association. Clearing the Haze. The Impacts of Marijuana in the Workplace
- Mental Health Commission of Canada. Start the Conversation: Problematic Substance Use and the Workplace
- Ontario Human Rights Commission. Policy on drug and alcohol testing
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