Speakers Corner

Dan Demers

Dan Demers is a nationally recognized expert in workplace impairment management and a senior leader at CannAmm, where he shapes Canadian workplace testing, wellness, and compliance programs. He leads strategic initiatives such as expanding CannAmm’s wellness offerings and occupational health services and implementing Credivera to modernize digital credentialing, onboarding efficiency, and compliance.

Dan holds dual designations as a Certified Substance Abuse Program Administrator (C-SAPA) and a Certified Health and Safety Consultant (CHSC), uniquely positioning him to bridge the gap between fit-for-duty standards and broader occupational health and safety systems. His work ensures seamless integration of impairment management with safety program governance, hazard prevention, and incident response protocols.

He is a technical advisory committee member for the CSA Z1008 Standard on the Management of Impairment in the Workplace. He is a Steering Committee Member of the COAA Canadian Model for Providing a Safe Workplace. Dan also co-chairs the Government Relations Committee and the Training Institute of the Substance Abuse Program Administrators Association (SAPAA), where he has led international advocacy efforts, including opposition to the U.S. cannabis rescheduling that could have undermined Canadian workplace testing standards.

Dan has shaped public policy decisions within the Yukon Government, Canada’s Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and the U.S. Department of Transportation. He has shared his expertise in five countries, the USA, Ireland, Mexico, Italy, and Norway, and is a trusted resource to forensic toxicologists, safety professionals, and legal counsel. A published author in a peer-reviewed legal journal and an experienced expert witness, Dan’s portfolio includes regulatory analysis, testing technology reviews, and arbitration support, with a 100% success rate in achieving favourable client outcomes.

Nabeela Ladha

Nabeela’s education includes a BSc. in Occupational Therapy from the University of Alberta and a Master’s in Business Administration from the Sauder School of Business at the University of British Columbia. Her professional background includes multiple clinical settings but is primarily centred on the assessment and treatment of workers with musculoskeletal injuries for the Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) Alberta. Nabeela’s focus is on preventing the occurrence of workplace injury and ensuring that work environments remain safe, effective and sustainable.