If you are a manager of staff whose work is not computer-based, please print this email and display it in a common work area for them to review.
To: Faculty and staff in Vancouver and the Okanagan
With the passing of new federal laws, Canadians will soon be able to consume cannabis legally. As these new laws come into effect, UBC remains committed to fostering a healthy, safe, inclusive, and professional work environment.
UBC employees should be aware that as with alcohol, the intoxicating effects of cannabis are not compatible with the performance of work.
UBC has an obligation to observe the safety rules set out in section 4.20 of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation to prevent impairment in the workplace. This means ensuring that employees do not arrive or remain at work while their ability to work is affected by alcohol, cannabis, or any other impairing substance regardless of its legal status. This is a reminder that UBC employees are required to refrain from the use of any impairing substance, including alcohol and cannabis, during or prior to work hours.
Although medical authorization to use cannabis does not include a right to consume cannabis at work or arrive to work impaired, employees who are prescribed cannabis for medical purposes and seek, or require, an accommodation should advise their supervisor. Any unauthorized or unapproved use of cannabis prior to or during work hours, even if you believe your ability to work is not affected by the substance use, will not be tolerated and may result in discipline.
UBC has resources available on substance use in the workplace, at http://www.hr.ubc.ca/administrators/managing-staff/information-for-supervisors-regarding-substance-use/.
In Vancouver, if you are a staff member or student employee, please direct any questions to your supervisor/manager. If you are a faculty member, please speak with your head. In the Okanagan, all enquiries can be directed to Central Human Resources.
Barbara Meens Thistle
Vice-President, Human Resources