MARIJUANA HAZARD

I am writing in response to the Speakout call Friday questioning the use of
a gas mask by a police officer while handling marijuana plants.

The concerns of police officers at a clandestine indoor marijuana grow
are as follows:

Mold spoor. Marijuana mold spoor is documented as being toxic and
causes respiratory and allergic reactions. At an indoor grow
operation, decaying marijuana plant material is prevalent and mold is
common.

Toxic chemicals. The chemicals used in the hydroponic cultivation of
marijuana include fertilizers, pesticides and steroids, which can all
create health hazards for humans.

Mercury. Mercury vapor lights are used in the grow rooms. Any broken
bulbs can cause harmful mercury exposure.

Other safety concerns at a clandestine indoor grow operation usually
involve the electrical systems, which generally cause a tangle of high
voltage electrical cords, intertwined with irrigations systems and
duct tubes running throughout the grow rooms. Fires and electrocution
are significant hazards. And one must never forget that the biggest
danger may be from heavily armed, paranoid drug dealers who may run
these operations.

The seizure of clandestine indoor marijuana grows is increasing in
frequency and these can range in size from one closet to whole-house
operations. As safety issues are recognized, law enforcement officers
will have to respond appropriately to protect their personnel. Various
studies are now indicating that the use of respiratory protection is
probably appropriate at any marijuana grow, and almost always at a
clandestine indoor grow operation, and especially when handling items
coming out of the grow room.

Greg Roberts

LBPDM