Our Ref: HSR/1/1
Head Office Circular: NP/269/19
3rd December 2019
To: The Secretary
ALL BRANCHES
ALL SHIPPING BRANCHES
REGIONAL COUNCILS

Dear Colleague,


CBD OIL

RMT representatives and members have been enquiring about and seeking advice on the use of CBD oil which is becoming more common in today’s society as a remedy for a whole host of medical conditions. On examination of this issue RMT became aware of guidance issued by Network Rail on this matter, this guidance was found to be not only inaccurate but also contradictory.

RMT approached Network Rail and their Chief Medical Officer agreed with RMT’s analysis of the Guidance and further agreed to withdraw it. However other employers in the rail industry, including DB Cargo and Scotrail have adopted this Guidance and have not withdrawn it. A report on this matter has been considered by the National Executive Committee who have noted and adopted the following report of their Health and Safety Advisory Committee:

We note the withdrawn policy on file and instruct the General Secretary to write to all employers, regulators and safety bodies raising our concerns with this matter demanding withdrawal of all inaccurate guidance and consultation on any future guidance in the normal manner.

Branches and Regional Councils to be informed.

I am acting in accordance with these instructions and you will be kept informed of future developments. Please make the contents of this Circular available to all appropriate members.

Yours sincerely

Mick Cash
General Secretary