RAC, employers seek drug-testing for 'safety-sensitive' jobs in Canada

Now that recreational marijuana use will soon be legal in Canada, the Railway Association of Canada (RAC) and other employers are calling on the government to legislate drug testing for "safety-sensitive" positions in the workplace.

The employers told the government that alcohol and drug use in workplaces is an existing concern that will be elevated when cannabis is legalized.

What few rules do exist for dealing with this safety risk rely almost exclusively on case law interpretation that is fact-specific, unclear and, at times, contradictory, the employers said in a press release.

"Our coalition calls on the government to implement a regulatory framework for alcohol and drug testing in safety-sensitive positions. This framework would establish clear rules throughout Canada aimed at preventing workplace alcohol and drug use. Government could do this in consultation with all key stakeholders to ensure all voices are heard on this important topic," the coalition wrote.

Other coalition members include the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers, Canadian Construction Association, Canadian Fuels Association, Canadian Trucking Alliance and the Federally Regulated Employers-Transportation and Communications.