A recent study by the Institute for Work & Health (IWH) sheds light on the increased risks associated with cannabis use during work hours. According to the research, workers who consumed cannabis either during or immediately before work were twice as likely to suffer workplace injuries compared to non-users. Interestingly, those who used cannabis outside of work hours did not exhibit the same risk.

The study suggests that the critical factor in preventing workplace injuries is the timing of cannabis use. While cannabis consumption outside of work hours doesn’t seem to raise injury risks, using it on the job or just before clocking in could impair judgment, reaction times, and coordination—leading to dangerous situations, especially in industries where safety is paramount, such as construction or manufacturing.

For those in leadership, this research highlights the importance of focusing policies on workplace safety rather than blanket bans on cannabis use. Rather than testing for cannabis broadly, it may be more beneficial to educate employees about the risks of consuming cannabis during work hours. Offering safety training and clear guidelines on cannabis use in the workplace can reduce the risk of injury without overreaching into employees’ personal lives.