ealth and safety professionals across Canada are concerned
about the legalization of recreational marijuana and its
impact on the workplace — especially when it comes to
safety-sensitive positions. But something that has been
largely ignored is the health and safety of workers within the
soon-to-be legal cannabis industry. Deloitte has predicted
that legalized recreational marijuana could be a $22.6
billion industry in Canada, taking into account the retail
market, growers, product makers, testing labs and security.
Unfortunately, when an industry is on the rise, the
significant influx of new workers means occupational
incidents — injuries, fatalities or both — rise as well.
For example, Alberta experienced its highest number of
workplace fatalities on record in 2013, clocking in at 188,
during a time when the provincial economy was at its peak.
To avoid this trend, cannabis companies — especially
those involved in growing and harvesting operations — need
to prioritize OHS now.
weeds
into
the
Trimming
marijuana
leaves,
working
around
grow
lamps
and
By Amanda Silliker
extracting
oils
take
a
hit
on
workers
