Cannabis Cultivation: Recommendations for Public Health Risk Messaging

Environmental Health Risks

Treat all cannabis products as hazardous to children and pets, even those not considered particularly appealing (e.g., unfinished joints).
Create a dedicated grow space with controlled access (i.e., strong locks and other safeguards such as an alarm).70
Label cannabis products and keep them in a locked cupboard or container
Keep information for the local poison control centres on hand for immediate, anonymous assistance with suspected cannabis intoxication.

Scale production according to the home’s ventilation capacity, occupants’ sensitivity to indoor mould (i.e., presence of asthmatics), and ability to control odour.
Control humidity by assessing and reducing indoor moisture sources, restricting cultivation to a humiditycontrolled (ventilated) room or apparatus, and using a dehumidifier as required. Monitor relative humidity using an inexpensive hygrometer.j
Be vigilant for signs of dampness or mould16 and consult professionals as needed.
Dispose of mould-infested plants safely and quickly
Consider non-ignition methods of CO2 enrichment.
Equip all homes with a CO detector, a proven life-saving intervention, particularly homes with a fuel-burning appliance (regardless of whether cannabis is cultivated).

Create good production practices as the first line of defence against pests.
Limit pesticide use and avoid non-PMRA-approved pesticides.
Follow Health Canada’s general guidance on safe use of pesticides indoors.39
Include general advice on pest control and promote least-risky means first in cannabis safety kits

Legal home grows remain subject to building, electrical, and fire codes
Growers may wish to consider high-efficiency, low-power LED lights intended for cannabis cultivation.
Always follow safety and installation instructions or hire certified installers for new equipment.
Be aware of the dangers (and legal consequences) of using organic solvents in cannabis processing.

Limit UV exposure by turning off UV-emitting lights while in the grow space, or keep skin covered and eyes protected.