Substance Abuse
Discrimination on the Basis of Addiction? Not Where Employee Capable of Complying with Workplace Rules
In a decision released on June 15, 2017, the Supreme Court of Canada has held that an employer did not discriminate against an employee when it terminated his employment for failing to disclose his use of cocaine.
Addiction is Not a Blanket Excuse for Misconduct
There can be little doubt that dealing with employees suffering the disease of addiction is a challenge for human resources professionals. That challenge becomes greater when the employee raises the addiction as an excuse for engaging in misconduct.
Drunk Driving: Just Cause for Termination
Workplace intoxication is a serious issue that affects productivity and may threaten the health and safety of the workforce. When employees drive while intoxicated, they put not only their own safety at risk, but also the safety of all those with whom they share the road. Furthermore, when drunk driving is done on company time, such actions can expose employers to liability.