A sensible approach to workplace drug testing for cannabis

As more states allow either medical or recreational use of cannabis (marijuana), the issue of workplace safety due to possibly impaired workers presents a dilemma for employers. While drug testing can determine if a worker has consumed cannabis, there is no way to determine from drug testing the date and time when the worker took the drug. Since the metabolites of cannabis products can remain in the body for up to three or even four weeks, a worker who shows no evidence of impairment and can safely and productively handle job responsibilities may be at risk of losing his job. This paper will explore the issue of worker safety and cannabis use, and propose a sensible approach to evaluating a worker's ability to perform in a safe and productive manner.