Let's talk about the elephant in the room. We're talking, of course, about cannabis use in the workplace, especially when it comes to operating machinery. When it comes to cannabis, it's important to ensure that your employees are educated on the potential risks and how to minimize them.

The thing is, consuming cannabis can affect your abilities on the job site. When THC is consumed, it can impair cognitive and motor skills, which can workers at risk when they’re operating heavy machinery. According to a study by the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse and Addiction, cannabis can negatively impact attention, decision-making, reaction time, and spatial perception. Not exactly the kind of skills you want impaired when you're working with heavy machinery.

‍

‍

Employers have the right to set rules regarding drug use in the workplace, as long as they're not discriminatory or unreasonable. They should also provide education to their employees regarding the risks associated with cannabis use, particularly when operating heavy machinery.

It's also important to note that employers have a duty to accommodate employees who use cannabis for medical purposes, as long as it doesn't pose a safety risk or cause undue hardship for the employer. This requires a balancing of the employee's rights with the safety of the workplace.

It's essential for employers to be proactive in addressing the issue of cannabis use in the workplace, particularly when it comes to operating machinery. By providing education, clear policies, and support for employees, employers can ensure the safety and productivity of their workforce while respecting the rights of individuals who choose to use cannabis.

Let's work together on your team’s cannabis education and ensure that everyone enjoys a safe and productive workplace.

‍

‍