Cannabis in Canada and at McMaster


As the country prepares for cannabis legalization, groups across campus are also preparing to ensure the safety of students, faculty and staff once the implementation date passes.

McMaster’s focus on health and wellness led to the recent implementation of the Tobacco and Smoke-Free Campus Policy. The campus was the first in Ontario to be 100% smoke and tobacco free in January of this year. The policy eliminates the use of tobacco products and smoking such as cigarettes, cigars, cigarillos, mini-cigars, pipes, water pipes, hookah, shisha, and cannabis on any University property. It also includes the use of electronic smoking devices which create an aerosol or vapor, in any manner or in any form, or the use of any oral smoking device.

In advance of October 17, updates have been made to the Code Student of Rights and Responsibilities and to the Residence Agreement Contract to support the new legislation.

“McMaster has taken a number of steps to prepare for the new legislation, and potential impacts on campus,” says Sean Van Koughnett, Associate Vice President (Students & Learning) and Dean of Students. “Existing McMaster policies and supports remain in place, including many student supports and services for anxiety and addiction.”

A new Fit for Duty policy is in development to guide employees on expectations and how to handle behaviours associated with cannabis use. “Health and safety of students and employees remain our top priority,” says Wanda McKenna, AVP and Chief Human Resources Officer. “We want to ensure students and staff understand expectations, McMaster policies, and the services available for support.”

Additional support for students and staff:

A webpage is available with educational resources, related policies and a leaders’ toolkit, to ensure the McMaster community is well informed.

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