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ARTICLE · 26 JUNE 2013

Where Are We With Alcohol And Drug Testing?

McCarthy Tétrault
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The recent Supreme Court of Canada decision about random alcohol testing has received a lot of attention, for good reason.

CanadaEmployment and HR
Earl Phillips
Earl Phillips
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The recent Supreme Court of Canada decision about random alcohol testing has received a lot of attention, for good reason.  Now seems to be a good time to review where we are and what employers must do if they want to have an effective drug and alcohol policy.

As noted in earlier commentary on the Irving Pulp decision, the matter of drug and alcohol testing has been evolving for some years, and that is likely to continue as different facts generate different concerns.  In the meantime, employers have interests and obligations that demand the implementation of effective drug and alcohol policies.

Here are a few general principles to keep in mind:

  • The overarching goal – on paper and in reality – must be a safe and productive workplace and a healthy workforce.

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