BROADCASTS.com

b'

Even as laws regarding the use of marijuana become more lax in many states, the grey areas seem to be widening. Take for example, rules regarding cannabis use by workers. Whether or not your state allows for legal weed is one thing, but it doesn\\u2019t mean your employer can\\u2019t give you the ax if they determine you\\u2019re using it.

But will they? Earlier this week, the National Safety Council, or NSC, released a statement on cannabis in the workplace, and they don\\u2019t mince words, saying no level of cannabis use is acceptable for those working in safety positions.

NSC cites a recent survey where they asked employers about cannabis use, revealing that 81 percent were concerned about the substance having a negative effect on their workplace. Further, \\u201c24% indicated they would dismiss an employee found to be misusing legal cannabis, such as being under the influence while on the job.\\u201d
NSC is urging companies to enact their own clear policies that state that \\u201cno amount of cannabis consumption is acceptable for those who work in safety sensitive positions."

So what are we considering \\u201csafety positions?\\u201d Well, it wouldn\\u2019t be much of a stretch to consider most or all plant floor activity to involve some sort of safety component, and if that\\u2019s the case, it makes it even easier for an uneasy employer to test pretty much whomever they want.

Legal experts say that most states allow a business to subject current employees to a drug test if \\u201cthe employee holds a position that could threaten the safety of the public or coworkers.\\u201d

And NSC says that cannabis use causes the kinds of effects, like impaired movement and difficulty with decision-making, that can have deadly consequences. That said, the agency does recommend that businesses find non safety-sensitive positions for users of legal medical cannabis.

Download and listen to the audio version below and click here to subscribe to the Today in Manufacturing podcast.