USA – Colorado’s Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE) has approved Cannabis Safety & Quality’s (CSQ) accredited certification program, along with its certification body, ASI, for Safe Harbor Hemp manufacturers.
The state’s Safe Harbor Hemp program defines these products as hemp-derived compounds or cannabinoids—either finished or still in production—intended for export but not permitted for sale or distribution within Colorado.
These products now require auditing by an accredited third-party certification body, with a compliance deadline set for July 1, 2025.
CSQ, an ANAB-accredited certification program specializing in cannabinoid products, offers a solution for licensed Safe Harbor Hemp manufacturers aiming to meet these new requirements.
The first step in obtaining CSQ’s cGMP certification involves scheduling an audit through ASI, a certification body accredited by CDPHE for approved programs.
Addressing marijuana operators’ concerns
As Colorado’s hemp industry adapts to these changes, CSQ is also addressing concerns within the marijuana sector.
The revised statutes include provisions for reduced testing allowances for marijuana operators who implement a Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) system according to ASTM Standard D8250-19.
To qualify for this reduction in testing, operators must pass an internal audit that demonstrates compliance with the new requirements.
RTA Toolkit for compliance
However, the updated rules leave some ambiguity regarding how operators should submit evidence of their HACCP system implementation.
In response, CSQ is developing a Reduced Testing Allowance (RTA) Toolkit to assist operators. This toolkit, created in collaboration with CSQ’s training partner Rootwurks, will provide resources for HACCP preparation, lead auditor training, and compliance documentation.
It is slated for a Q3 launch, with further details and additional resources expected soon.
Support from industry leaders
Darwin Millard, CSQ’s Technical Director, noted that while the new processes are designed to enhance safety and quality, many operators face challenges in understanding what constitutes acceptable evidence for compliance. The RTA Toolkit aims to bridge this gap, offering operators the tools they need to demonstrate their adherence to the rules.
Rootwurks CEO Chase Eastman emphasized the importance of HACCP preparation in creating safer cannabis products and compliant workplaces.
He highlighted that Rootwurks’ HACCP certification course is tailored to help companies overcome common obstacles in safety training, such as limited budgets and manpower.
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