Cannabis Extraction Safety: 5 Hazard Minimization Tips

With the global cannabis extract market size valued at 3.5 billion in 2022 and expected to grow 20% each year from now until 2030, it’s no wonder cannabis extraction companies are booming in popularity. There’s one roadblock, though. The actual process of extracting cannabinoids can be extremely risky. This is why certain precautions need to be set in place.

The number one rule with extraction is that safety should always be a priority. And with a few practical tips, you can minimize these hazards and ensure a safe work environment. Drawing from OSHA’s guidelines, here are five essential safety tips cannabis processing facilities should know.

1. Utilize Chemical Fume Hoods

Flammable solvents like butane, hexane, alcohol, and ethanol are all commonly used to extract plant oils from cannabis. And while they do a great job at separating out the oils needed to create cannabis products, these liquids have a high risk of being released during processing. In fact, these flammable liquids ignite very, very easily. Even a small spark from a power outlet can cause an emergency situation.

To Do: Make sure you always work with flammable liquids under some sort of chemical fume hood. These safety areas not only create a ventilated area to circulate out fumes, but they also create a blockage from potential hazards that might set off reactions to your extraction liquids.

2. Purchase a Quality Ventilation System

Adequate ventilation is crucial in every cannabis extraction facility. Without it, harmful fumes and vapors can accumulate, creating hazardous working conditions. That’s why OSHA states that extraction rooms must have an exhaust system that has a ventilation rate of one cubic foot per square foot of solid floor. Without it, you and your team could be at risk.

To Do: Invest in a high-quality ventilation system designed to handle the specific needs of your extraction processes. This includes localized exhaust systems that capture fumes directly at the source and general ventilation to keep the air in the facility safe to breathe. You should also regularly test your ventilation system to ensure it works effectively.

3. Implement Fire & Explosion Prevention Measures

You probably already know that the extraction process carries a significant risk of fire and explosion. One recent example is when an extraction lab in Berkeley, California, experienced an explosion with an employee inside–thankfully, they ended up with no life-threatening injuries. Preventing these kinds of incidents in the first place and creating a safety plan are both crucial for protecting your facility and employees.

To Do: Store flammable materials in appropriate, clearly labeled containers, and ensure they are kept in a designated area with proper signage. Always use updated, reliable equipment. Make sure all electrical installations meet the National Electrical Code (NEC) standards for hazardous locations. Install explosion-proof lighting and electrical fixtures. Last but not least, you should also equip your facility with appropriate fire extinguishers and train your staff on how to use them.

4. Provide Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is a critical line of defense against injuries and exposure to hazardous substances in cannabis extraction facilities. Our bodies are very sensitive to the harsh chemicals used in the extraction process, which is why it’s important to stay covered. With the proper PPE, you can protect your team against various hazards, from chemical splashes to inhaling harmful fumes.

To Do: Provide your employees with high-quality PPE, including gloves, safety goggles, lab coats, and respiratory protection. Ensure that the PPE is appropriate for your facility's specific extraction processes and chemicals. Conduct regular training sessions on the correct use and maintenance of PPE and immediately replace worn or damaged equipment to maintain optimal protection levels.

5. Properly Secure Compressed Gas Cylinders

Accidents happen, but accidents in cannabis extraction labs should always have a backup line of defense. That’s why OSHA suggests securing your compressed gas containers in specific ways. These containers can explode very easily, and having a safety net from being knocked over can minimize the risk of a fire or explosion.

To Do: Properly secure down all compressed gasses with chains, straps, or clamps. Make sure the straps are 2/3 of the way up on the cylinder to avoid falling over. Always store containers in an upright position. Also, remember to keep your gas cylinders in a dry location.

The Bottom Line

Safety in cannabis extraction isn’t just critical–it’s necessary. By implementing these five tips, you can create a safer working environment for everyone involved and help avoid costly situations. Utilizing chemical fume hoods, maintaining proper ventilation, preventing fires and explosions, using appropriate PPE, and properly securing compressed gasses are all critical steps in minimizing hazards. But remember, safety is an ongoing process. Regularly review and update your safety precautions to keep your extraction facility thriving.

Safeguarding your cannabis business can be overwhelming, but I’m here to simplify it. As a Senior Vice President and insurance expert specializing in the cannabis industry, I collaborate with business owners nationally to provide you with optimal coverage. Reach out to [email protected] to get a tailored quote or learn more about cannabis insurance options.