Top concerns are ensuring safe workplaces and obtaining guidance on best practices
More than seven in 10 employers are not prepared for the legalization of marijuana, according to a survey by the Human Resources Professionals Association, Business of Cannabis and the Public Services Health and Safety Association.
"Employers are simply not yet equipped with the knowledge and the resources they need to ensure that their workplaces are prepared for legalized marijuana,” said Scott Allinson, VP of Public Affairs at the HRPA.
“Balancing these legal changes with the imperative to provide a safe workplace for all is a challenging transition – and employers need the right tools for the job."
In a January 2018 survey among 680 HRPA members, nearly half – 47.8% -- of employers cited ensuring safe workplaces as their most pressing issue.
Employers also want some clarity on best practices as they seek guidance, guidelines and sample policies as marijuana is legalized in the workplace.
The new survey builds on HRPA's 2017 research report, entitled Clearing the Haze: The Impacts of Marijuana in the Workplace.
"The Canadian public is widely supportive of the decriminalization," said Jay Rosenthal, Co-Founder and President of Business of Cannabis. "However, BofC research suggests the industry could do more around safety and responsible use.”
He added: “With medical and recreational cannabis rates expected to rise, a deeper understanding and training is required for workplaces to effectively navigate forward. We look forward to working with HRPA and others like PSHSA to address these gaps."
Meanwhile, as the country moves through transition to legalization, it is important that workplaces focus on creating safe environments and helping workers stay healthy at work.
Kim Slade, Director of Emerging Markets and Commercialization at PSHSA, one of Ontario's designated health and safety associations, said: "While some workplaces feel they have policies and procedures in place to address health and safety concerns, others are looking for clarity on what legalization means to their workplace health and safety practices, specifically as it relates to safety-sensitive roles."
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