AFTER A CANNABIS worker died in October, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration has issued a warning about the risk of work-related asthma in the industry.
The move follows the release of a multi-state study, which found that some cannabis workers who work in close proximity to product or handle it are developing workplace-related asthma.
Additionally, two cannabis workers have died from asthma linked to cannabis exposure, underscoring the need for operators to strengthen controls.
Who is at risk
According to a multi-state study conducted by public health agencies in California, Massachusetts, Michigan and Washington, 30 confirmed cases of work-related asthma have been identified in cannabis operations, including 13 new-onset cases in employees with no prior asthma history.
Many cases occurred in high-exposure roles such as trimming, grinding and pre-roll production.
In one highly publicized incident summarized in an OSHA Fatal Facts bulletin, a 27-year-old flower technician collapsed after developing progressive symptoms including coughing, runny nose, shortness of breath and wheezing; several co-workers also reported similar respiratory problems.
Some workers developed symptoms after a single exposure event, while others reacted after years of performing the same tasks.
Workplace risks
- Several exposures in cultivation and processing facilities can contribute to asthma:
- Cannabis plant dust is the most common trigger, especially during grinding and packaging.
- Mold is another major hazard in humid indoor grow environments.
- Certain disinfectants, including bleach, hydrogen peroxide-based products, can cause or worsen asthma symptoms.
- Heat and humidity can intensify symptoms as well.
Underreporting is a concern
Researchers note that workers may not initially associate symptoms with workplace exposures, and some clinicians are unfamiliar with cannabis-related asthma. In one fatality cited by investigators, a worker repeatedly reported difficulty breathing at work but was returned to the same high-exposure role without medical restrictions.
Meanwhile, OSHA has launched cannabis-specific enforcement efforts targeting dust control, respiratory protection and hazard communication. As the industry matures, regulators are expected to examine ventilation systems, training programs and safety protocols.
Employers may also face increased workers’ compensation claims as a result. Any visit to the doctor for work-related asthma should be covered by your workers’ compensation policy.
What cannabis operators can do
Worker training and reporting – Train employees on respiratory hazards associated with cannabis and early warning signs of asthma.
Urge your employees to report symptoms immediately.
Strengthen engineering controls – Install local exhaust ventilation and HEPA filtration in high-dust areas. Equip grinders and similar equipment with dust-capture systems.
Improve administrative practices – Limit time spent in high- exposure areas and rotate staff when possible. Maintain strict humidity controls to prevent mold. Replace asthma-sensitizing disinfectants with safer alternatives whenever feasible.
Provide respiratory protection – When exposures cannot be controlled through engineering and administrative measures, provide respiratory protection and offer fit-testing and worker training.
Takeaway
Work-related asthma is preventable, and cannabis firms need to focus on early recognition, effective controls and employee training.
Addressing these risks now can protect workers, reduce regulatory exposure and prevent further tragedies. It can also keep you from running afoul of OSHA and incurring a costly workers’ comp claim.