Drug-Testing in Alberta

A recent article showed that workplace random drug testing in Alberta might see some changes in the near future.

Currently, the rules state that you can only do random drug testing in the workplace if there has been a history of substance use problems AND the workplace and job responsibilities are inherently dangerous. Now, a case involving SUNCOR is arguing that non-union and independent contractors should also be included in random workplace drug testing.

We wrote in another blog about the delicacy and caution required when drug testing employees and what action employers can take when they’re experiencing issues with an employee associated with substance use and addiction.

Here are some resources we wrote employers in preventing workplace substance use and how to take action when it happens:

You Are the Key: 10 Steps for Employers to a Drug-Free

Workplace Substance Abuse

Choose Careers Worth More Than Just Dollars

The Psychologically Healthy Workplace: Finding Meaning and Purpose

Addiction Stigmas and Workplace Productivity

If you’re a business or employer in Alberta looking for addiction treatment or counselling for an employee, these links will provide you with available public and private treatment and counselling options:

http://www.canadadrugrehab.ca/AB/Alberta-Residential-Alcohol-Drug-Rehab-Programs.html#adult

http://www.sunshinecoasthealthcentre.ca/calgary-rehab.html#adult

http://www.sunshinecoasthealthcentre.ca/edmonton-rehab.html#adult

http://www.canadadrugrehab.ca/AB/Alberta-Outpatient-Alcohol-Drug-Rehab-Programs.html#private

http://www.sunshinecoasthealthcentre.ca/calgary-rehab.html#private

http://www.sunshinecoasthealthcentre.ca/edmonton-rehab.html#private

Note: The Alberta Health Services (AHS) generally sends clients to in-province facilities and will only send people to out-of-province treatment in rare circumstances. Find out more about treatment options available to you in your province and city at www.canadadrugrehab.ca or call Leah at 1.877.746.1963

Not in Alberta? www.canadadrugrehab.ca lists all available treatment programs (e.g. inpatient, outpatient, therapy, meetings) available in Canada. Contact Leah at the above contact info for more information on programs in your area.