New Mexico Cannabis Orientation
Cannabis, while often thought of as just a plant or a product, is very much a consumable item, and because of that, it’s subject to strict standards similar to those found in the food industry. Every employee who handles cannabis in any capacity, whether they’re involved in cultivation, production, or retail, must obtain a Food Handling License from an accredited provider. This license ensures that employees are trained in safe food handling practices—training that applies directly to the cannabis they’ll be working with.
Importance of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
The use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is critical. Handling cannabis products requires the same level of care as handling food. Before starting any task, whether it’s processing cannabis or packaging edibles, employees need to suit up. This can include gloves, masks, hairnets, and even protective eyewear, depending on the task. The goal is to prevent contamination—not just for the sake of the product but also for personal safety. For example, handling certain tools or equipment might require additional PPE to protect against potential injuries or allergen exposure.
Additionally, workplaces should be kept clear of clutter, and all debris should be promptly removed to maintain a safe working environment.
Key Policies for Handling Cannabis
Sanitation is Key: Just like in the food industry, all surfaces that come into contact with cannabis products must be sanitized using food-safe cleaners. These surfaces should be cleaned both before and after use to avoid any chance of contamination. Whether it’s trimming buds or packaging infused products, cleanliness is essential.
Cross-Contamination Prevention: Cross-contamination is one of the biggest risks in handling consumable products, including cannabis. To avoid it:
Always change PPE between tasks, especially if moving from one product to another.
Regularly clean areas of contact, such as workstations and tools.
Be diligent about sanitizing hands, gloves, and any utensils involved.
First Aid and Safety Awareness: Employees need to be aware of the locations of all PPE, first aid kits, and hand/eye washing stations. In an industry where sharp tools and potential allergens are common, having quick access to safety equipment is crucial.
Product Contamination, Expiration, and Recalls
Should any product be suspected of contamination, expiration, or even subject to a recall, those products must be immediately removed, collected, and destroyed according to state and regulatory guidelines. This is particularly important in a regulated industry like cannabis, where consumer safety is always a top priority.
Safe Storage of Cannabis
Cannabis storage is just as crucial as handling, and similar to food, products must be stored in a way that preserves their integrity:
No Bare Hands: At no stage should cannabis products be handled with bare hands, whether during cultivation, packaging, or sale.
Food Grade Containers: Cannabis should be stored in food-grade containers, ensuring that the product remains uncontaminated.
Temperature Control: Edibles and concentrates often require specific storage conditions, such as refrigeration, to maintain their potency and freshness. Additionally, cannabis flower should be stored in a cool, dark place to avoid degradation from light or heat.