When Things Go Wrong Ep15: Navigating Risks in the Cannabis Processing World

Guided by our moderator, Alexa Wilson, Director of the Design+Build Division at Omega Equipment & Supply, we had the privilege of engaging with Chris Witherell, CEO at Pressure Safety Inspectors, and Sean Winfield, CMO at ExtractionTek Solutions, two leading voices in the field.
The trio navigated us through the evolutionary timeline of the cannabis extraction industry, highlighting milestones in safety, best practices, equipment design, and the ever-changing regulatory landscape. With
an emphasis on the critical need for industry-wide standards, they painted a vivid picture of both the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.
Key Takeaways
Industry Evolution: The panelists compared the early days of the cannabis industry to the "wild west,” where facilities had hazardous setups. Thankfully, advancements have led to more controlled and safer operations. However, there' still a long way to go.
Safety Concerns: Chris cited an unfortunate incident of a man who passed away due to inadequate safety controls at a facility while producing ethanol extracted concentrates. There's a call for a better understanding of solvents, equipment, and safety measures, especially with multiple examples of accidents when safety isn't prioritized.
Regulation Challenges: Sean noted the growing complexity of regulations, especially as cannabis legalization spreads across states and countries. Understanding these regulations and ensuring compliance is crucial for safe operation and growth.
Equipment Validation: Equipment validation is vital. Chris relayed an incident where a company provided false documentation for equipment validation, which compromised safety and product quality. Equipment validation doesn’t just keep operators safe; it keeps consumers safe as well.
Advice for Cannabis Operators: Ahead of industry events like MJBizCon, operators should ask equipment vendors vital questions like their business duration, electrical listings, scalability models, material sourcing, and how their equipment can be approved or verified. Operators should be wary of purchasing equipment without thorough and documented verification.
Guidance for Regulators: For regulators new to cannabis, the advice is to educate themselves, avoid copying regulations from other states blindly, and to consult experts. A detailed technical and safety analysis is crucial for equipment and operational approval.
In wrapping up, our panelists struck a hopeful note, envisioning a future where the cannabis industry flourishes, backed by collective effort, unwavering commitment to safety, and adherence to best practices and standards. We encourage all stakeholders to keep this vision in mind and to continue learning, sharing, and evolving together.