Addressing Occupational Health in the Cannabis Industry

Addressing Occupational Health in the Cannabis Industry

As the cannabis industry keeps expanding, so does the need for occupational health services. Cannabis businesses contribute a lot to local economies, but they also face health and safety challenges that can’t be ignored. From physical hazards in cultivation and processing to the complexities of employee drug testing, keeping cannabis workers healthy and safe is essential.

Occupational health services and employee wellness programs can help cannabis companies create safer work environments, protect employees from harm, and stay compliant with regulations. Here’s a look at the key occupational health issues in the cannabis industry and how Mobile Health’s services can support employee safety and wellness.

Why Occupational Health Services Matter in the Cannabis Industry

Cannabis businesses have a duty to provide safe working conditions for their employees. Occupational health services ensure that companies not only meet safety regulations but also protect their teams from avoidable risks.

According to the CDC, employees in the cannabis industry can be exposed to a range of hazards including heat stress, noise, microbials, endotoxins, and physical harm from accidents.

Mobile Health’s occupational health services equip cannabis businesses with the tools they need to maintain compliance, enhance safety, and reduce the chances of costly workplace incidents. It’s all about creating a safe and supportive environment where employees can thrive.

Employee Drug Testing

One of the trickiest parts of managing health and safety in the cannabis industry is employee drug testing. Even as cannabis becomes legal in many states for both medicinal and recreational use, employers must maintain a safe, productive workplace, especially in safety-sensitive roles like cannabis cultivation and processing.

It’s a complex balancing act. Employees might legally use cannabis outside of work hours, but in roles involving driving, operating machinery, or other high-risk tasks, employers need to ensure no one is impaired on the job.

Mobile Health offers employee drug and alcohol testing services that help employers keep employees and worksites safe. From pre-employment screenings to random testing and post-incident evaluations, Mobile Health’s solutions make it easier for businesses to maintain safety while respecting legal cannabis use.

Supporting Employee Wellness in the Cannabis Industry

Employee wellness programs that focus on physical health and preventive care can make a real difference. Mobile Health’s Corporate Wellness Programs bring essential health services directly to your employees, making it easy for cannabis companies to invest in their workforce’s well-being. By offering on-site services like biometric screenings, flu vaccines, and skin cancer checks, you can ensure your team has access to the care they need without disrupting their workday.

These programs don’t just help prevent illness, they build a culture of care and support within your organization. When employees feel valued and supported, they are more engaged, motivated, and productive. Plus, healthier employees mean fewer sick days, reduced burnout, and even lower healthcare costs over time.

Vaccinations, Immunity Testing, and Preventive Care

Vaccinations and preventive care are crucial, especially in the cannabis industry, where employees might be exposed to biological contaminants. Making sure workers are up-to-date on necessary vaccinations helps protect them from common workplace infections.

For example, vaccines like tetanus and flu shots can be vital for cannabis workers, particularly those in cultivation or production facilities where they might encounter contaminants. Immunity tests (titers) can also help verify that employees have sufficient protection against certain diseases.

Mobile Health’s vaccine and titer services make it easy for employers to offer this essential preventive care, reducing the risk of illness and supporting a healthier workforce.

Mobile Health is ready to help cannabis businesses safeguard their teams and comply with health and safety regulations. If you’re seeking a partner to support the health and wellness of your cannabis workforce, Mobile Health is here to support you every step of the way. Get in touch with us to get started.

  • Tricia Chen-Weis, RN | Mobile Health | Occupational Health Services
    Written by:
    Tricia Chen-Weis, RN

    Tricia Chen-Weis is a seasoned healthcare professional with a passion for operational excellence and patient care. Joining Mobile Health in August 2019, Tricia quickly made her mark improving patient care and clinical operations as Site Manager in Mobile Health’s 36th Street and Staten Island location. With a bachelor's degree from the University of The West Indies and a nursing degree from Monroe College, Tricia's educational foundation provided her with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the healthcare industry. Prior to her tenure at Mobile Health, Tricia's career journey encompassed roles in business and healthcare, including positions as a purchasing agent/buyer and Practice Administrator. In her current role as Director of Clinical Operations, Tricia oversees all six of Mobile Health’s owned and operated NYC clinics, their operations, and staff, ensuring the seamless delivery of top-tier occupational healthcare services to clients. Since assuming this role in January 2024, Tricia has demonstrated exemplary leadership, fostering a culture of teamwork and collaboration among her team members. With a commitment to continuous improvement, Tricia looks forward to further growing and enhancing Mobile Health's operations, ensuring the organization's continued success in delivering exceptional care to its clients.