Taxes, shifting regulations and compliance issues. These are the problems we’re accustomed to seeing in the cannabis industry. But as the coronavirus continues to spread across the United States, it’s important to recognize that the virus is having an impact on the plant-touching industry. With the federal government today declaring a national state of emergency, we wanted to review a few important matters that all licensed retailers should keep in mind to ensure safety for employees and clients alike.

Coronavirus cannabis retailers resource guide

What up? If you’re here, you know the cannabis industry isn’t getting any financial stimulus from the federal government. But, there are still some very useful resources for how you can keep your business running a tight and right:

• Centers for Disease and Control primer, because duh.
• CDPH has a nice guide for California businesses.
• Check out our checklist for retailers below!

“I heard something about coronavirus and curbside/delivery?”

A lot has changed in the past few weeks, and with no end in sight to the pandemic, curbside and delivery appear to be the responsible way to provide cannabis to consumers. Check out our curbside and delivery implementation blog.

Coronavirus checklist for cannabis retailers

• Procedures matter. It’s tricky to stay rational about a public health scare –particularly if you are in a cash-only industry– but maintaining a level head and reviewing procedures with employees can go a long way. Fundamental steps like maintaining proper hygiene procedures (hand washing, coughing into your elbow), and effectively communicating developments to employees and consumers all matter.
• Know your Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP) and make sure there’s a physical, written form of it at your retail locations. IIPPs are a requirement under California law. They can sometimes be overlooked by even the best-intentioned employer, but it’s California law to have your IIPP on premise. Consider it another critical document that you need to be aware of and on top of producing. If you need to develop an IIPP, take a look at the eTool from the state’s department of industrial relations.
• Understand your obligations as an employer for sick days to employees on all levels. A healthy staff is critical to a dispensary running as smoothly as possible. If someone does get sick, make sure that you have effective procedures in place for sick days, etc.
• Ensure safe and sanitary product and cash handling. This goes back to procedures and what matters. Retail is a face-to-face occupation where employees are interacting with dozens of customers per shift. Make sure that all product and cash is being handled responsibly and sanitarily.
• Sanitize high-traffic surfaces. Counters, shelves, inspection containers…
• Consider latex gloves for cash-handling employees.
• Speak with your lawyer on any laws or requirements beyond IIPP for ensuring a safe workplace. Particularly for delivery drivers in your employment due to their unique challenges and specifics.
• Have questions or concerns about the coronavirus?, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has an excellent .
• Wash. Your. Hands.

Stay safe out there.