Reducing Occupational Road Risk from Cannabis: A Complete Guide for Employers and Employees

Occupational road risk is a major workplace safety issue, and the use of substances such as cannabis can significantly increase this risk. This blog explores in depth the dangers associated with cannabis use for professional drivers and suggests effective prevention measures for employers.

Professional Road Risk: A Worrying Reality

Occupational road accidents, although they do not represent the majority of workplace accidents, are the most serious in terms of consequences. In 2021, work-related accidents accounted for 19% of road deaths in France. Each year, around 12% of workplace accidents are road accidents, making road risk the leading cause of death at work.

Typology of Accidents

Occupational road accidents fall into two main categories:

  • Mission accidents : occurring during travel necessary for the performance of work.
  • Travel accidents : occurring during the journey from home to work or between the workplace and the place of eating.

Cannabis: A Factor in Fatal Accidents

Cannabis is the most widely used illicit substance in France, and its effects on driving are still largely underestimated. According to a recent study, 1 in 5 road deaths involve a driver who has taken drugs. Cannabis, in particular, increases the risk of a fatal accident by 1.65. Despite this reality, a widespread misconception is that a single joint would have no effect on the ability to drive. However, even in low doses, cannabis impairs concentration, lengthens reaction time and impairs coordination.

The Dangers of Driving Under the Effects of Cannabis

Cannabis use leads to:

  • A decrease in alertness.
  • Poor coordination of movements.
  • An increase in reaction time.
  • A decrease in visual and hearing faculties.

These effects are even more dangerous when the driver is distracted, for example by using their phone while driving. The combination of cannabis and alcohol is particularly deadly, increasing the risk of causing a fatal accident by 29 times.

Preventive Measures for Employers

Given this risk, employers have a crucial role to play in preventing road accidents related to cannabis use. Here are some recommended prevention measures:

Risk Assessment

Although the Labour Code does not contain specific provisions on road risk, it requires employers to assess it within the framework of general prevention principles. This assessment must be documented in the Single Document for the Assessment of Professional Risks (DUERP).

Update of the Internal Regulations

For companies with more than 50 employees, it is recommended to update internal regulations to include provisions on the use of substances, including cannabis, and to consider saliva testing.

Prevention Actions

After the assessment, it is essential to implement actions to reduce the risks:

  • Train employees on the dangers of cannabis and good driving practices.
  • Develop partnerships with business clubs and road safety associations.
  • Collaborate with occupational health and prevention services to identify risk situations.

Legal Sanctions and Driving Under the Effect of Cannabis

Driving under the influence of cannabis is a crime that is severely punished by law. Penalties include:

  • A two-year prison sentence and a €4,500 fine for driving under the influence of drugs.
  • Three years in prison and a €9,000 fine if combined with alcohol consumption.
  • Suspension of driving license.

Conclusion

Preventing cannabis-related road risk is a priority for businesses. By educating employees and incorporating robust prevention measures, employers can help reduce this risk and protect the health and safety of their employees. Staying informed and vigilant is essential to ensuring a safe work environment for all.