FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 5, 2025
Colorado Springs, CO - The S3 Collective, a national nonprofit organization advancing the cannabis industry through collaboration, education, and standardization, today highlighted the urgent need for stronger respiratory-protection programs following new federal findings on occupational asthma and allergic disease in cultivation and processing environments.
Recent investigations by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) spotlight respiratory hazards associated with cannabis plant dust and aerosols, confirming that even low-level exposure can trigger serious illness. These findings underscore the urgent need for written respiratory-protection programs, comprehensive air-quality controls, and worker training across cultivation and processing operations.
Advancing Safety Through Science and Standards
Through its participation and support of ASTM International Committee D37 and participation in the FDA’s Network of Experts, the S3 Collective continues to advance science-based occupational-health standards across the cannabis supply chain.
One such effort is the proposed Standard Guide for Working With Dust of Ground Cannabis sativa L. Plant Parts and Crystallized Cannabinoids, now under ASTM Committee review. This guide will provide engineering and PPE recommendations to help operators control exposure to plant dust and aerosols during cultivation, harvesting, extraction, and processing.
“These federal findings confirm the importance of having validated, consensus-driven standards that help protect workers before harm occurs,” said David Vaillencourt, Board Chair, S3 Collective. “By integrating the recommendations from OSHA and the research results from NIOSH into an ASTM standard, we can ensure every facility has clear, practical tools to safeguard their employees.”
Recommended Actions for Industry Stakeholders
- Review OSHA’s Fatal Facts No. 20-2025 (4489) and NIOSH HHE 2019-0107-3412 in full.
- Implement a written respiratory-protection program consistent with 29 CFR 1910.134.
- Conduct annual fit-testing and medical clearances for all respirator users
- Eliminate dry sweeping and compressed-air cleaning; use HEPA or wet methods instead.
- Ensure adequate HVAC capture and filtration at trimming, grinding, and packaging stations.
- Provide employee training on allergen, dust, and air-quality control procedures.
By integrating these practices and adopting forthcoming ASTM guidance, facilities can help prevent occupational sensitization, reduce liability, and strengthen the scientific foundation for worker safety within the growing cannabis economy.
About S3 Collective
The S3 Collective is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to advancing the cannabis, hemp, and botanical industries through collaboration, education, and standardization. By assisting in the development of robust standards, fostering strategic partnerships, and providing scientifically validated resources, S3 Collective empowers stakeholders to make informed decisions that promote public health and safety.
Media Contact
S3 Collective – Marketing