Michigan OSHA launches emphasis program focused on cannabis industry

Lansing, MI — In an effort to protect workers in the rapidly expanding cannabis industry, Michigan OSHA has initiated a state emphasis program that covers the growing, harvesting and processing of the plant. 

Since Michigan legalized cannabis for recreational use in 2018, the state’s cannabis industry has grown to more than 1,000 dispensaries, over 1,000 growers and 228 processors. MIOSH notes that these settings have the highest occurrence of occupational safety and health hazards.

Via its cannabis safety webpage, MIOSHA offers free resources, fact sheets and educational video sessions co-hosted by the Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency – the regulatory program overseeing adult-use marijuana establishments and licensees.

The videos cover topics such as MIOSHA’s Consultation Education and Training Division, hazard communication and personal protective equipment.

Two PowerPoint modules intended for employers focus on:

• Applicable MIOSHA requirements for new businesses
• Chemical exposure concerns for workers
• Required workplace posters
• MIOSHA’s administrative, agriculture, general industry and construction rules that apply to cannabis businesses
• Injury and illness reporting and recordkeeping
• Safety Data Sheet requirements
• Hazards such as high noise levels and air contaminants
• Respiratory protection
• Sanitation

Employers can request assistance on identifying workplace hazards and training workers via MIOSHA’s Consultative Assistance Program.