AOCOPM 2024 Midyear Educational Conference-346719

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Dr. Michael Decker addressed the complexities surrounding high potency cannabis use and its implications for employers. With cannabis becoming increasingly legal across the globe, including recent developments in Germany and parts of the US, understanding its effects becomes crucial. Dr. Decker highlighted the medical impact of high potency cannabis, focusing on the distinction between acute and chronic use and its symptoms. Employers must consider the legal and practical challenges, such as potential employee impairment and the complications arising from cannabis metabolite tests that don't directly equate to impairment.<br /><br />He pointed out that while cannabis use can result in fewer potential employees, particularly under a drug-free workplace policy, it also brings risks like accidents from impairment and absenteeism. The legal landscape is evolving, with different state court rulings protecting or penalizing cannabis use. This creates inconsistencies that employers must navigate carefully, especially concerning safety-sensitive positions, where impairment could lead to dangerous outcomes.<br /><br />Dr. Decker emphasized the evolving nature of workplace policies and the necessity for clear guidelines, including assessing cannabis risk and determining when and why testing should occur. New technologies focus on real-time impairment testing, assessing cognitive and physical effects—a potential game-changer in evaluating impairment versus the traditional metabolite tests. Ultimately, he advocated for employers to work closely with legal and medical professionals in developing policies that reflect the current legal environment and prioritize workplace safety.

Keywords

high potency cannabis

employer implications

cannabis legality

acute vs chronic use

cannabis impairment

workplace safety

legal challenges

real-time impairment testing

cannabis workplace policies

metabolite tests