CCOHS Launches E-Course on Marijuana and Workplace Impairment

Updated:
October 2, 2018

When employees are impaired on the job—whether from fatigue, the use of drugs or the consumption of alcohol—they can create a number of serious workplace safety hazards. With the federal legalization of recreational marijuana right around the corner, it’s more important than ever that employers understand the dangers of workplace impairment, particularly as it relates to marijuana usage.

In response to this need, the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) recently launched an informative e-course—Impairment and Cannabis in the Workplace. This e-course provides readers with a background on workplace impairment and, using marijuana as an example, outlines steps employers can take to address the issue. Topics covered in the e-course include the following:

  • Impairment
  • Effects of marijuana
  • Testing for marijuana
  • Program development
  • Employer, supervisor and employee roles
  • Human rights and the duty to accommodate

After completing the e-course, employers should understand the impact of impairment, the health effects of marijuana usage, the importance of impairment policies, workplace roles as they relate to impairment and specific training strategies.

While this e-course focuses heavily on marijuana usage, it does provide general information that can be applied to impairment from fatigue, alcohol and other sources.

Company Fined $90,000 After Worker is Injured from a Fall

An Ontario-based construction firm was recently fined $90,000 after a worker fell from a ladder. The employee lost their footing while performing electrical work above a drop ceiling. The worker suffered critical injuries from the fall.

The employer was fined for failing to provide the worker with appropriate safety equipment to help reduce the hazards of working at heights.

FAQs

What is financial advising?

Financial advising involves providing guidance and advice to individuals, families, or businesses to help them make informed decisions about their financial matters. This can include various aspects such as investment planning, retirement planning, tax planning, estate planning, and more. Financial advisors analyze their clients' financial situations, goals, and risk tolerance to create customized strategies that align with their objectives.

Why is financial planning important?

Financial planning is crucial for several reasons:

Goal Achievement: It helps individuals set and achieve financial goals, whether they are short-term, such as buying a home, or long-term, like funding a comfortable retirement.

Risk Management: Financial planning addresses risks by considering insurance, emergency funds, and other protective measures.

Budgeting and Saving: It promotes responsible money management through budgeting and saving, fostering financial stability.

Wealth Building: Effective financial planning can lead to wealth accumulation and the creation of a secure financial future.

Can financial advisors help with debt?

Yes, financial advisors can help with debt management. They can assess your overall financial situation, create a budget, and develop strategies to pay down debt efficiently. They may also negotiate with creditors on your behalf, provide debt consolidation recommendations, and offer guidance on prioritizing and managing debt repayment.

What exactly does a financial advisor do?

The specific responsibilities of a financial advisor can vary, but generally, they:

  1. Conduct a thorough analysis of a client's financial situation, including income, expenses, assets, and liabilities.
  2. Develop personalized financial plans based on the client's goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon.
  3. Provide investment advice and portfolio management services.
  4. Offer guidance on retirement planning, estate planning, tax planning, and insurance.
  5. Monitor and adjust financial plans as needed based on changes in the client's life or market conditions.
  6. Educate clients on financial matters and empower them to make informed decisions.
What is the average fee for a financial advisor?

The fees charged by financial advisors can vary widely based on factors such as the advisor's experience, the services provided, and the region.

Common fee structures include:

Hourly Fees: Advisors charge an hourly rate for their services.
Flat or Fixed Fees: A set fee is charged for specific services or a comprehensive financial plan.
Asset-based Fees: Fees are a percentage of the assets under management (AUM).
Commission-based Fees: Advisors earn commissions on financial products they sell.
Combination of Fees: Advisors may use a combination of the above fee structures.
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It's important to discuss and clarify fee arrangements with a potential financial advisor before engaging in their services.