Cannabis, also known as marijuana, marihuana, weed, pot, grass, or flower, is a tobacco-like substance made from the dried flowering, fruiting tops and leaves of the female cannabis (hemp) plant, Cannabis sativa. Cannabis contains hundreds of different chemicals, and plants used for medical and recreational purposes have been specially bred to contain higher concentrations of these substances, known as phytocannabinoids.
What are the overall health effects of cannabis use?
Effects of ingesting cannabis may be delayed for 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on factors like weight, metabolism, sex, and whether the cannabis is eaten on an empty stomach. When cannabis is inhaled by smoking or vaping, the chemicals in the plant pass from the lungs into the blood vessels, which carry them to receptors throughout the body, primarily in the nervous system and brain.
How is marijuana governed?
Cannabis was legalized for production, sale, and use in Canada in 2018, and is now governed by the following federal laws: the Cannabis Act, the Cannabis Regulations, the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, and the Food and Drugs Act. Legal sources for cannabis include purchasing it directly from a federally licensed seller, from a provincial retailer, or from a licensed producer.
What concerns should an employer have if cannabis is used for medical purposes?
Employers should consider if there is a risk to the employee's safety or the safety of others when evaluating the side effects of any medically authorized, prescribed, or over-the-counter medication. For instance, while using the medication, is the employee capable of performing the job or task safely (e.g., driving, operating machinery, use of sharp objects)? Is there an impact on cognitive ability or judgement? Are there other side effects of the medication?
What ought workers and employers to do?
If the company has a substance use/abuse policy, it may be necessary to disclose the use of cannabis for medically authorized purposes.Employers should review any workplace policies.Employees may wish to consider informing their employer if a medical procedure or treatment may impact their ability to perform their job safely.While it is not appropriate for the employer to ask for specific medical findings and diagnoses from the employee or their health professional, employees may wish to consider doing so.
Are employers required to make accommodations?
Yes, employees can request accommodations due to their medical conditions. Employers have this duty to accommodate, up to the point of ""undue hardship,"" and this right includes those who may use medical cannabis as part of their treatment for a condition.The employee should be evaluated using ""fit to work"" procedures, where the goal is to determine if they are medically fit to work.""" - https://www.affordablecebu.com/
