OSHA Program to Investigate Workplace Hazards in Colorado Cannabis Industry

The Federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is launching a new program to identify potential workplace hazards in the Colorado cannabis industry, according to a Safety and Health Magazine report.

OSHA’s Local Emphasis Program for Cannabis Industries will investigate facilities in the Denver area involved with the processing, manufacturing, and cultivation of cannabis and hemp products.

“Workers employed in the cannabis industry are exposed to a variety of safety and health hazards,” OSHA writes. “Activities such as extraction and production of concentrates involve the use of flammable liquids and have resulted in serious injuries to employees from burns and explosions. Other hazards such as electrical issues, exposure to hazardous chemicals, and unguarded machinery are also prevalent.”

Under the program, OSHA’s Englewood and Denver Area offices plan to inspect and review local cannabis facilities and evaluate the sites’ working conditions, records, and health and safety programs. Additionally, OSHA will hold training sessions with stakeholders and offer educational newsletters.

“The intent of this Regional Emphasis Program is to encourage employers to take steps to address hazards, ensure facilities are evaluated to determine if they are in complying with all relevant OSHA requirements, and to help them correct hazards, thereby reducing potential injuries, illnesses, and death for their workers.” — Excerpt from OSHA report

In 2022, OSHA ruled that the death of Massachusetts cannabis worker Lorna McMurrey — who collapsed while filling pre-rolls at a Trulieve processing facility — was caused by inhaling “ground cannabis dust.”