I work as a Tech miself, up here in sunny Manchester, and (like many) came across your blog whilst reading The Grauniad. Have just started reading it, but get the feeling it will keep me amused for hours on station when the jobs eventually quieten down early in t'morning. It's amazing how much in common we all have in our reactions and thoughts on the similar circumstances we encounter in our jobs. ...anyway, wanted to let you know a few things regarding your 'pot' quandary... I actually use it myself as it's great for putting me to sleep when needed.. re:point about shift turnarounds and the havoc it plays with your body clock. Actually I have become so dependent on this to regulate my body clock, that if 'they' ever did bring in compulsory drug testing, then I would have to think seriously about my career, and whether I could still function with 24hour shift patterns! Some of your readers (and my colleagues) may be alarmed by my admission but the way I see it, it is less of a problem in society than the aforementioned alcohol, that fuels agression, violence and self-delusion. Also in the same way none of us comes to work pissed, or even over the limit, I don't come to work stoned... I wouldn't be able to do the job I love justice! I have my rules and generally only have one mild joint before retiring to bed. Oh by the way... I've always called it 'weed' to locals up here, but each area/region has it's slang. Strictly speaking 'hash' is often used to describe the solid 'cannabis' resin type... 'grass' or 'weed' or 'green' is used to describe the other 'marijuana' leafy type... although the terms are often interchangeable.