OSHA emphasis program targets Colorado cannabis industry

Denver — A new Local Emphasis Program from OSHA is aimed at identifying and reducing workplace hazards associated with cannabis processing, growing, cultivation and product manufacturing.

The LEP – slated to remain in effect through July 18, 2029 – applies to facilities involved with cannabis operations under the oversight of the Denver and Englewood, CO, area offices.

“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,” OSHA says. “Other hazards such as electrical issues, exposure to hazardous chemicals and unguarded machinery are also prevalent.”

Agency outreach efforts will include training sessions with stakeholders and electronic information sharing via newsletters. Enforcement activities may involve programmed inspections and review of various activities, such as the evaluation of working conditions, records, and safety and health programs.

In the past seven years, the Denver and Englewood area offices have conducted 44 complaint, fatality and referral inspections – as well as several incident investigations (including three deaths).

The most common citations involved violations of OSHA standards on hazard communication (1910.1200; 66% of the inspections), respiratory protection (1910.134; 41%), personal protective equipment (1910.132; 20%) and flammable liquids (1910.106; 18%).

“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 complying with all relevant OSHA requirements and to help them correct hazards, thereby reducing potential injuries, illnesses and death for their workers,” the LEP states.