Many workplaces have policies regarding drug use that may need
to be revised when marijuana is legalized. Federal and provincial
governments have established some protections regarding
discrimination or illegal termination for medical marijuana
use. As Alberta residents consider the legalization of
recreational pot, it is important that they know their rights in
the workplace should they choose to partake.
Handling marijuana at work, like most sensitive employment
issues, comes down to a balance of rights and obligations. To this
end, employers have a right to ask about drug use and consider it
if they believe it may impair a worker and create an unsafe
environment. For example, jobs that involve operating a motor
vehicle will require employees to be completely free of any drugs
or alcohol.
