When we talk about fostering safe workplaces and healthy people, it’s easy to focus on policies, training, and testing. But behind the scenes, there’s a critical player ensuring those drug and alcohol testing programs are not only effective, but fair, accurate, and legally defensible. That player? The Medical Review Officer (MRO). As a workplace substance … Read more
As cannabis use becomes more normalized and socially accepted, employers face a growing challenge: how to balance shifting cultural attitudes with the ongoing need to maintain a safe work environment. Let’s continue the conversation about moving away from the vague and often unhelpful concept of “impairment” and focusing instead on safety risk. But even that … Read more
Workplace safety is a top priority, yet many employers still struggle with how to address substance use in a way that is practical, fair, and legally sound. The issue is often framed around impairment, but as I’ve discussed before, impairment is a subjective and emotionally charged term that does little to help workplaces make informed … Read more
As Chair of the International Association of Medical Review Officers, I am pleased to introduce this recently formed not-for-profit specialty organization. Who We Are IAMRO is a professional membership association of physicians and medical practitioners who provide Medical Review Officer (MRO) services in their respective countries of practice, health professionals and auditors who are Subject … Read more
As a workplace substance use consultant, I’ve seen firsthand how society often oversimplifies “impairment” as a clear state of incapacity. But the reality is far more complex. Every one of us has experienced some form of impairment—whether from alcohol, fatigue, stress, or other factors—which makes the word profoundly emotional and often misunderstood. In workplace contexts, … Read more
With the holidays upon us, many companies are planning gatherings to celebrate. It’s a time for connection and relaxation and also an important moment to consider best practices around social hosting and workplace safety when alcohol or other substances are often a part of the festivities. For many of you, this won’t be new advice. … Read more
As cannabis legalization continues to expand globally, many employers are faced with the challenge of managing its use within their workplaces. Here in Canada, where cannabis has been legalized since 2018, its use for medical purposes has been in place for many years, I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with organizations navigating this complex … Read more
Managing Substance Use Disorder (SUD) in the workplace is a multifaceted challenge that requires careful consideration of both the employee’s well-being and the organization’s operational needs. Returning to work after treatment for SUD involves a structured process to ensure a successful and sustainable reintegration. This article explores the key elements of managing SUD and the … Read more
As cannabis legalization spreads, ensuring workplace safety becomes increasingly complex. The normalization of cannabis use has brought about challenges in maintaining a safe and productive work environment. One effective approach is the implementation of oral fluid testing for THC. This article explores how to gain employer buy-in for oral fluid testing to protect workplace safety, … Read more
Yes, We Do Things Differently “Up North” What follows are some of the key areas where testing in Canada differs from the US. Of note, the information provided here is relevant to drug and alcohol testing in Canada and not related to the US Department of Transportation (US DOT) testing, other than where identified as … Read more
