Q: For years, I’ve suffered from chronic pain which I manage with a combination of prescription and over the counter pain killers. Because my doctor and I want to look at other alternatives (the drugs are taking a toll on my liver) I’ve tried using CBD oil and it looks very promising. The problem is that because of my job I’m subject to random drug testing, and I’m afraid if I’m using CBD oil daily I’ll test positive on a drug test. My doctor says not to worry, but I wanted your HR perspective.
A: For those who don’t know, CBD oil (Cannabidiol) derives from the cannabis or hemp plant. Because it contains little to no THC it doesn’t get you high, and many people like yourself are finding it helpful in relieving their pain as well as anxiety, insomnia, tremors and seizures. It’s become very popular and is widely available everywhere including national drug store chains, natural food stores and on the internet.
Although the likelihood that you might test positive at a workplace drug test is highly unlikely, -depending on the type of CBD oil, how much you are taking, how often, how your body metabolizes it and the type of drug testing your employer uses (blood, cheek swab or urine) – it could happen, and it has. Although hemp-derived CBD oil should have less than 0.3% THC, there is little regulation of these products.
So what can you do as a good employee who is trying to use CBD oil responsibly?
What I recommend is that you disclose your use to whoever administers the drug test. Whenever we submit to a work-related drug test (whether it’s pre-employment, post-injury, post-accident or random) we are asked to do some paperwork asking us to list current medications or supplements we’re taking. This is your chance to preempt any possible problem by letting them know what, how much and how often you are taking.
Usually when an employee tests positive, the lab will contact the employee (giving an opportunity to explain) before contacting HR. I don’t anticipate you’d have a problem –even if you were to test positive- if you have been upfront about the situation.
Sources: forbes.com, webmd.com, shrm.org
©Copyright Eva Del Rio
Eva Del Rio is creator of HR Box™ – tools for small businesses and startups. Send questions to Eva@evadelrio.com
