Ontario has published new proposed rules around marijuana use that includes a workplace ban on smoking both the medical and recreational varieties.
In response to the federal government’s plan to legalize marijuana in July 2018, Ontario’s proposal is informed by its experience in managing tobacco and alcohol, as well as lessons from other jurisdictions that have recently legalized marijuana, it noted in a press release.
Read: Employers concerned about ‘Wild West’ surrounding marijuana legalization: HRPA
The province’s proposals include regulating the use of medical and recreational marijuana separately, so it will restrict recreational marijuana in a similar way to alcohol. Under its proposed Cannabis Act, 2017, it would be illegal to use recreational marijuana in workplaces. And for those using medical marijuana, smoking and vaping won’t be allowed in enclosed workplaces or other areas where tobacco smoking is currently banned.
As a key part of Ontario’s awareness campaign, it will be developing resources to guide employers, labour groups and others as they manage workplace safety issues related to impairment at work.