Substance Use and Long-Haul Truckers

In safety-sensitive industries where the risk of harm to individuals and to others is high, substance use is a serious issue. In Canada, long-haul truck drivers hold safety-sensitive positions and require tailored supports to manage substance use in the workplace. Addressing this issue involve several laws: the Highway Traffic Act, the Canadian Criminal Code, and Canadian Human Rights Act. Thus, supporting truck drivers is complex requiring balancing laws and work duties. This study builds on previous research by the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction to gain insights into work-related risks and protective factors for substance use in transportation. While research has focused on sleep and drug/alcohol testing, very few studies have examined workplace substance use policies. This study aims to identify specific risk factors, examine current policies, explore available supports, and understand stigma surrounding substance use for commercial drivers. Findings offer valuable information to improve supports and reduce substance use for drivers.