Kronic has Entered the Workplace
New Zealand is seeing an increase in the use of synthetic cannabis products. With this increase, the country has discovered that Kronic is now being used not only during recreational time but in the workplace as well. Not only is this extremely unhealthy for the workers, but it is also posing many dangers.
The synthetic cannabis products produce many similar effects of the traditional products, like hemp and marijuana. The users can experience euphoria and paranoia, which can also put the other workers in harm’s way. While the product doesn’t have the exact same effects as marijuana, it is seen to be up to 20 times stronger.
Recently, a number of random testers were taken from a specific area in a region of New Zealand. The NZDDA sent it overseas for synthetic cannabis testing, and as a result found that 30% were positive for the synthetic drug, known as Kronic.
Many employers in New Zealand are seeing the effects of Kronic and are beginning to test for users. Their number one goal is to keep the workplace as safe as possible and also hold the employees accountable if something does go wrong. Even though Kronic is currently legal, many New Zealand companies believe it shouldn’t matter.
Hon Peter Dunne, the Associate Minister of Health, announced, as of June 17, that the Misuse of Drugs act was amended. By amending this, the synthetic cannabis drug became a substance to remain restricted. Under the NSW Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act, New South Wales also banned synthetic drugs that have similar effects of Kronic. Western Australia has also taken similar steps and has banned synthetic cannabis products.
The managing director of New Zealand’s Drug Detection Agency, Kirk Hardy, shared in a statement that they work with companies within aviation, transport, civil engineering and mining and help them with drug testing. He also mentioned that many of the negative effects of Kronic are starting to become more visible, which is making it easier to detect in the work environment. It is also allowing many companies to realize how important it is to test all employees.
Employers are realizing that it’s not just about a healthy and safe environment, but the wellbeing of an employee is just as important. While they are required to supply a working environment that is safe, by law, their workplace also needs to be altered so that the policies are abided by. By providing testing for the presence of synthetic drugs, workplaces can ensure they are being safe and healthy for all that are employed.
