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Statement in Response to the Legalization of Cannabis
October 17, 2018
Energy Safety Canada has worked collaboratively with industry and government in preparation for the legalization of cannabis.
Employers have a responsibility to ensure a safe workplace by preventing workers who may be unfit for duty from engaging in activities that could have devastating consequences.
“When it comes to any drug or alcohol, legal does not equal safe,” says Murray Elliott, President and CEO, Energy Safety Canada. “There is an obligation to be fit for duty, and that remains paramount to ensure we protect workers and our communities from any risks. Impairment in the workplace has always been unacceptable and will continue to be unacceptable.”
The Construction Owners Association of Alberta (COAA) and Energy Safety Canada jointly released an updated alcohol and drug policy model, The Canadian Model for Providing a Safe Workplace, Version 6.0. The Model is a detailed cross-industry guideline to support companies with updating their workplace impairment policies.Energy Safety Canada, together with industry, developed 10 Life Saving Rules. The Life Saving Rules provide a consistent approach in the prevention of serious injuries and fatalities for our industry. Rule 10, Fit for Duty, was incorporated to reflect concern with impairment and readiness for work in the Canadian operating environment.
Energy Safety Canada believes further research is required around a standard approach to impairment testing in the workplace.