Marijuana And The Workplace by Zeke Corley

Due to the legality of recreational marijuana in California, some employers worry about how it affects the workplace.  Will your employees come to work high?  Are you required to turn a blind eye?

The truth is that California employers are not required to allow employees to use marijuana.  Lawmakers are pushing to create legal limits for marijuana impairment in the same manner as alcohol.  And although research is still ongoing for developing tools to accurately determine impairment due to marijuana, clearly-written policies that have been approved by an attorney will still help protect employers.

Understanding the hazards of impairment while performing many job duties, an employer’s handbook should include clear rules and punishments for violating company substance abuse policies.  Businesses whose employees operate heavy equipment, including vehicles, should be even more sure that the proper precautions are set in place.  Most insurers will require that driving records are checked periodically, and some may even require drug testing and background checks.  If you suspect impairment but do not have a program to test impairment, keep the employee from operating a motor vehicle or heavy equipment.
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Follow this link for a packet from one of our carriers that will help you establish a Drug-Free Workplace Program if you don’t have one in place.
 
Zeke Corley has been a licensed insurance broker since 2003.  You can email him at [email protected] or call him at the San Diego office at (858) 569-8100.  Visit our agency online at www.yourinsuranceplace.com.
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