Directive on Physical Security Requirements for Controlled Substances and Drugs Containing Cannabis

From: Health Canada

1. Purpose and scope

The following directive is intended to establish realistic minimum security standards for the storage of controlled substances as defined in the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA), and drugs containing cannabis as defined in the Cannabis Regulations, which are flexible enough to take into consideration advances in technology, changes in the legal and illegal drug marketplace, building codes, construction materials and construction expertise. It is also intended to assist licensed dealers and holders of a cannabis drug licenceFootnote 1 with their own risk assessment when designing security measures which best meets their needs.

A variety of different secure structures will be accepted. Diversity, from a security point of view, is ideal as a thief with knowledge of one company's security system will not be able to utilize this knowledge when trying to steal drugs from another company. These security requirements have been designed in such a way that a company can upgrade their security, should this be required, without going to a great deal of expense provided they have a good basic security system. This upgrading may be occasionally necessary due to the increased quantity of drugs being stored or the increased desirability of a drug by the illicit market.

This directive has been written for all licensed dealers, research scientists and analytical laboratories that hold a licence under the CDSA. It is also relevant to holders of a cannabis drug licence under the Cannabis Act. Licensee’s security measures will be reviewed against this directive.

In this directive, the term “Licence Holder” refers to licensed dealers and to holders of a cannabis drug licence, unless otherwise specified.

2. Appendix A - Licence holders geographic locations

2.1 Region I

Any location within a 100 km radius of the centre of any city experiencing a large number of break and entry, armed robbery, pilferage, loss in transit and unexplained losses.

The areas in this Region are:

  1. Toronto plus any location within 100 km radius
  2. Montreal plus any location within 100 km radius
  3. Vancouver plus any location within 100 km radius
  4. Edmonton plus any location within 100 km radius

Cities such as Hamilton, Kitchener, and Victoria fall within the Region I because they are within 100 km of a city mentioned in Region I.

2.2 Region II

Any location within a 50 km radius of the centre of a city experiencing significant numbers of break and entry, armed robbery, pilferage, loss in transit and unexplained losses.

The areas in this Region are:

  1. Halifax plus any location within 50 km radius
  2. Quebec City plus any location within 50 km radius
  3. Ottawa‑Gatineau plus any location within 50 km radius
  4. London plus any location within 50 km radius
  5. Winnipeg plus any location within 50 km radius
  6. Calgary plus any location within 50 km radius
  7. Windsor plus any location within 50 km radius

2.3 Region III

Region III is any location in Canada that is not in Region I or II.

3. Appendix B - Values of controlled substances, drugs containing cannabis and licence holder inventory limitations

3.1 - Prices to be utilized in determining the illicit value of controlled substances and drugs containing cannabis

Note: These prices are calculated using a combination of the illicit market price for a finished product as well as for the raw material. The weight of the substance contained in or used to make the product is used in determining the value and not the weight of the finished product that may include other substances that are outside of the scope of this directive.

Note: All salts of the substances listed in this table are assumed to be valued at the same rate and treated in the same manner.

Table 1: Prices to be utilized in determining the illicit value of controlled substances and drugs containing cannabis
Illicit value / kg Substances

$3,000,000

  • Alfentanil
  • Heroin
  • Carfentanil
  • Etorphine
  • Fentanyl 
  • Diacetylmorphine (Heroin)
  • Hydromorphone
  • Sufentanil 

$1,000,000

  • Cocaine
  • Levorphanol

$250,000

  • Amphetamines
  • Hydrocodone
  • Methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV)
  • U-47700
  • MT-45
  • Benzylpiperazine (BZP)
  • 2C-phenethylamines
  • Methamphetamine
  • Oxycodone
  • W-18
  • AH-7921
  • Aminorex
  • Trifluoromethylphenylpiperazine (TFMPP)

$100,000

  • Coca Leaves
  • Methaqualone
  • Diphenoxylate
  • Morphine
  • Ethylmorphine
  • Normethadone
  • Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD) 
  • Pethidine
  • Phencyclidine (PCP)
  • Methaqualone
  • Buprenorphine
  • Phencyclidine (PCP)
  • Methadone 
  • Normethadone 
  • Pentazocine
  • Flunitrazepam
  • Oxymorphone

$50,000

  • Alphaprodine
  • Codeine
  • Anileridine
  • Methylphenidate
  • Anabolic Steroids    
  • Codeine
  • Methylphenidate
  • Tapentadol
  • Opium
  • Diazepam
  • 4-Hydroxybutanoic acid (GHB)
  • Ketamine
  • Zeranol

$25,000

  • Nalbuphine
  • Pentobarbital
  • Nabilone
  • Psylocybin
  • Cathinone
  • Zolpidem
  • Benzodiazepines
  • Dimethytryptamine (DMT)
  • Butorphanol
  • Nalbuphine
  • Mescaline
  • Pentobarbital
  • Secobarbital
  • Cathine
  • Salvinorin A
  • Dimethoxy-4-bromophenethylamine

$15,000

  • Chlorphentermine
  • Phentermine
  • Diethylproprion

$10,000

  • Amobarbital
  • Phendimetrazine
  • Drugs Containing Cannabis
  • Phenmetrazine
  • Synthetic cannabinoid receptor type 1 agonists

$1,000

  • Barbiturates
  • Clotiazepam
  • Ethinamate
  • Ethchlorvynol
  • Fencamfamin
  • Fenproporex
  • Pyrovalerone
  • Mazindol
  • Mefenorex
  • Meprobamate
  • Methyprylon
  • Pipradol
  • Pemoline

3.2 Other substances

Any substance which is not listed above and is not a derivative of any substance listed above will be valued at its commercial price or the price of substances having similar pharmacological properties. The price to be used will be the higher one.

3.3 Usual wholesale price

All controlled substances not listed above will be priced at the usual price of the most commonly sold size. If the drug is being held as "raw material" the price used will be the usual commercial price of the material.

3.4 - Licence holders inventory limitations

Table 2: Category A
Category A Region “I” Security Level Region “II” Security Level Region “III” Security Level

Licensee holdings
$150,000,001 and up

11 11 10

Licensee holdings
$31,250,001 to $150,000,000

10 10 9

Licensee holdings
$6,250,001 to $31,250,000

9 9 8

Licensee holdings $1,250,001 to $6,250,000

8 8 7

Licensee holdings
$250,001 to $1,250,000

7 7 6

Licensee holdings
$50,001 to $250,000

6 5 5

Licensee holdings
$10,001 to $50,000

5 4 4

Licensee Holdings
$0.00 to $10,000

4 3 3
Table 3: Category B: Researchers and analytics laboratories
Category B Region “I” Security Level Region “II” Security Level Region “III” Security Level

Licensee holdings
$2,501 to $10,000

3 3 3

Licensee holdings
$501 to $2,500

2 2 2

Licensee holdings
$0.00 to $500

1 1 1

The value of a licensee’s holdings is calculated using the prices shown in this appendix (Table I) multiplied by the MAXIMUM inventory of controlled substances and drugs containing cannabis on the premises at any time. Only drugs and drug formulations requiring storage in a vault or safe (see Appendix D) need to be used in the calculation.

Category B – is limited only to Licence Holders under the CDSA that are researchers or analytical laboratories where no drug distribution is involved and where their holdings have a value that does not exceed $10,000.

4. Appendix C - Storage of controlled substances and drugs containing cannabis

4.1 General

The following pages offer a description of the security levels 1 through 11 which are presented as the Office's minimum requirements for the different security levels. Appendix D identifies the types of controlled substances and drugs containing cannabis which will be allowed to be stored inside a steel caged area and also provides a description of the cage requirements. The Office will allow alternate methods of construction provided the penetration resistance is at least equal to the standard.

Laminates – which are materials such as cement blocks, plywood, steel mesh, polycarbonates, etc., sandwiched together – can be used effectively to offer a level of attack resistance which is at least equal to that of the traditional poured cement or cement block type vault. However, companies wishing to use laminates rather than the traditional cement vault (due to weight problems, economic considerations, convenience, etc.) should consider discussing the proposed security with the Departmental official responsible for the assessment of physical security of Licence Holders; they must ensure that the force resistance is at least equivalent to the Office's minimum requirements. Furthermore, Licence Holders are reminded that they are responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable federal, provincial/territorial and municipal legislation, including workplace health and safety, as well as fire and building codes.

4.2 Security level - 1

4.2.1 General

4.2.1.1 The following are the minimum requirements which the Office will accept for level 1 security. The required level is determined by the location of the Licence Holder and the maximum inventory. The monetary value of the inventory is calculated using the illicit value of the drug. (See Appendix B, Table 1).

4.2.1.2 The Office will consider alternate forms of secure environs, such as laminates, providing they are equal in force resistance to the examples given below.

4.2.2 Secure environs

4.2.2.1 Controlled substances and drugs containing cannabis must be stored in secure environs. Cupboard, refrigerator, a drawer in a steel cabinet, or an equivalent may be used for this level of security provided it is located in a locked room and fastened to the room's floor or wall. The device used to store the researcher's inventory is to be secured with an approved padlock (see Appendix E) or its equivalent.

4.2.2.2 The required security device, in 4.2.2.1, must be located in an area to which the public does not have access.

4.2.2.3 Records of the issuing of combinations and keys, under the authorization of an officer of the Licence Holder, must be maintained and be available to inspectors of the Department.

4.3 Security level - 2

4.3.1 General

4.3.1.1 The following are the minimum requirements which the Office will accept for level 2 security. The required level is determined by the location of the Licence Holder and the maximum inventory. The monetary value of the inventory is calculated using the illicit value of the drug. (See Appendix B, Table 1).

4.3.1.2 The Office will consider alternate forms of secure environs, such as laminates, providing they are equal in force resistance to the examples given below.

4.3.1.3 An alarm system is required. It must at least activate a local electric horn or bell when an unauthorized access is attempted.

4.3.2 Secure environs

4.3.2.1 Controlled substances and drugs containing cannabis must be stored in secure environs. Steel cabinet, refrigerator or equivalent is acceptable provided it is located in a locked room and fastened to a wall or floor in such a manner that it is not moveable. The cabinet or refrigerator must be locked with an approved padlock (see Appendix E).

4.3.2.2 The required security device, in 4.3.2.1, must be located in an area to which the public does not have access.

4.3.2.3 Records of the issuing of combinations and keys, under the authorization of an officer of the Licence Holder, shall be maintained and be available to inspectors of the Department.

4.4 Security level - 3

4.4.1 General

4.4.1.1 The following are the minimum requirements which the Office will accept for level 3 security. The required level is determined by the location of the Licence Holder and the maximum inventory. The monetary value of the inventory is calculated using the illicit value of the drug. (See Appendix B, Table 1).

4.4.1.2 The Office will consider alternate forms of secure environs, such as laminates, providing they are equal in force resistance to the examples given below.

4.4.1.3 An alarm system is required. It must at least activate a local electric horn or bell when an unauthorized access is attempted.

4.4.2 Secure environs (Vault)

4.4.2.1 Wall/floor/ceiling

  1. Constructed of 10 cm (4") cement block minimum or equivalent.
  2. Structural floor to structural ceiling construction (i.e. no false floors or ceilings).
  3. Unsecured openings must have one dimension less than 15 cm (6") and not to exceed 619 cm2 (96in2). Acceptable grill work for secured opening will consist of 3.5 mm (10 gauge) metal mesh screen or equivalent.

4.4.2.2 Door

  1. Solid core wooden door or hollow metal.
  2. Locking device must penetrate the door frame at least 1.25 cm or be of a vertical throw type lock. Locking device cannot be on a master key system.
  3. Metal frame grouted in the area of the strike plate. Wood frame blocked in the area of the strike plate complete with a high security strike.
  4. One and one half pair butt hinges (3 hinges (no removable pins if the door has an outswing)).
  5. Windows in door are not permitted.

4.4.2.3 Records of the issuing of combinations and keys, under the authorization of an officer of the Licence Holder, shall be maintained and be available to inspectors of the Department.

4.4.3 Safe

4.4.3.1 A records safe may be used for this security level providing it is not rated lower than U.L.C. (Underwriters Laboratories of Canada) type "D" (350 ‑ 1 new rating). The safe must be anchored to the floor.

4.4.3.2 The safe must be located in a locked cupboard or room. No window can be located within 4.5 metres (15') from the grade level or roof deck unless it is locked. There are no size restrictions on the windows. Windows are not permitted within 1 metre (3') of the door. Windows fixed or openable with a lock must have a grill or screen of 3.5 mm (10 gauge) expanded metal mesh or equivalent installed in a manner that it is removable from the inside only. An acceptable alternative to the window requirements stated above is if the windows are polycarbonate glazed and mounted in a heavy duty frame.

4.4.3.3 If the safe is located in a metal cage, in lieu of a locked room or cupboard, the cage must meet the requirements outlined in Appendix D.

4.5 Security level - 4

4.5.1 General

4.5.1.1 The following are the minimum requirements which the Office will accept for level 4 security. This level is determined by the location of the Licence Holder and the maximum inventory. The monetary value of the inventory is calculated using the illicit value of the drug. (See Appendix B, Table 1).

4.5.1.2 The Office will consider alternate forms of secure environs, such as laminates, providing they are equal in force resistance to the examples given below.

4.5.1.3 Minimum electrical detection requirements:

  1. There must be sufficient detectors to indicate when there is an unauthorized attempt to open, penetrate or remove the vault or safe.
  2. A smoke detector installed inside vault.
  3. May be wired into general warehouse security detection equipment. Minimum Grade "B" line supervision is required or "d" below. Line supervision is to be monitored by a monitoring station.
  4. Automatic dialer is acceptable to signal an alarm situation to a monitoring station. The automatic dialer (Digital Communicator) is to be connected to the monitoring station on a private line. The access number to this line is to be unlisted and the line restricted to only the automatic dialer. No line supervision can be provided for this type of service, however, a line monitor can be installed (together with a bell or siren) which will, if the line is cut, ensure that the bell/siren will still operate as a local alarm.

4.5.1.4 All electrical conduits for the alarm system, security equipment, lighting, telephone, etc. shall be in accordance with any applicable electrical code.

4.5.1.5 The secure environs, if they include a vault, safe or caged area must be located at least 1 metre (3') from any outside wall if it is located on either a ground floor or if it is accessible from a roof. The Office may consider certain conditions to be equivalent to the 1 metre (3') requirements. These conditions may be in the form of another building in close proximity to the secure environs, ditches, cement pylons, etc. The 1 metre (3') requirement applies regardless of the distance from the ground or accessible roof, if construction is to be against a wall which is common to another company.

4.5.1.6 Ventilation - Openings in the vault for ventilation or air conditioning must not reduce the overall security of the vault. In instances where either a circulation of air or air conditioning is necessary, one of the following conditions must be met:

  1. Openings must have one dimension of the opening cannot exceed 619 cm2 (96in2).
  2. The opening or duct work must be protected by the installation of N° 5 (15 mm (5/8")) steel reinforcing rods securely anchored into the wall on 15 cm (6") centers and horizontally reinforced on 40 cm (16") centers, or a grill.
  3. If a grill is to be used it is to be constructed of either N° 5 (15 mm (5/8")) steel reinforcing rods on 15 cm (6") centers and horizontally reinforced on 40 cm (16") centers, or 3.5 mm (10 gauge) expanded metal mesh, welded into a 6 mm (1/4") metal frame. The frame is to be securely anchored to the wall.

4.5.2 Secure environs (Vault)

4.5.2.1 Walls

Cement block

High density concrete block 15 cm (6") thick with cores filled with type "M" mortar and reinforced as required to meet structural codes, or

Poured concrete

  1. 10 cm (4") of poured concrete (20.7 MPa (3000 lb/in2) minimum).
  2. Reinforced as required to meet structural codes.

Ceiling/floor

  1. 10 cm (4") of poured concrete (20.7 MPa (3000 lb/in2) minimum).
  2. Reinforced as required to meet structural codes.

Door

  1. 1.2 mm (18 gauge) hollow metal door with a 1.5 mm (16 gauge) metal frame.
  2. Grouted or blocked in the area of the strike plate.
  3. Locking device must penetrate the door frame at least 1.25 cm or else be a vertical throw type.
  4. Not to be on a master key system.
  5. Records of the issuing of combinations and keys, under the authorization of an officer in the institution, shall be maintained and be available to inspectors of the Department.

4.5.3 Safe

4.5.3.1 A records safe (fire resistant safe) may be used for this level of security providing it has a U.L.C. (Underwriters Laboratories of Canada) rating of class A, B, or C (New Ratings 350-4, 350-2, 350-1 respectively).

4.5.3.2 It should be noted that the class "C" safe offers the same force resistance as the class "A" and "B" safes. Class "A" and "B" safes are constructed with more insulating material which results in increased fire protection for the contents.

4.5.3.3 The safe can be installed in a room which is normally under a lock and key system. The room must be equipped with a detector which will indicate when there is an unauthorized attempt to open the door. The room and door must meet the requirements of 4.4.2.2 and 4.4.3.2.

4.5.3.4 Records of the issuing of combinations and keys, under the authorization of an officer in the institution, shall be maintained and be available to inspectors of the Department.

4.5.3.5 If the safe is located in a metal caged area, in lieu of a locked room, the cage must meet the requirements outlined in Appendix D.

4.5.3.6 Safe must be anchored to the floor in such a manner that it cannot be removed without first opening the door.

4.5.4 Cage

4.5.4.1 Only finished products listed in Appendix D may be held in a caged area. Appendix D also identifies the requirements for both the cage's construction and its electrical detection equipment.

4.6 Security level - 5

4.6.1 General

4.6.1.1 The following are the minimum requirements which the Office will accept for level 5 security. This level is determined by the location of the Licence Holder and the maximum inventory. The monetary value of the inventory is calculated using the illicit value of the drug. (See Appendix B, Table 1).

4.6.1.2 The Office will consider alternate forms of secure environs, such as laminates, providing they are equal in force resistance to the examples given below.

4.6.1.3 Minimum Electrical Detection Requirements:

  1. There must be sufficient detectors to indicate when there is an unauthorized attempt to open, penetrate or remove the vault or safe.
  2. A smoke detector installed inside vault.
  3. Detection equipment which will indicate motion inside the vault.
  4. Vault or safe detection equipment may be wired into general warehouse security. Minimum Grade "B" line supervision is required. Line supervision is to be monitored by a monitoring station.
  5. Control boxes for the security system are to be located inside the vault and safe.
  6. Proximity detector (capacitance detector), if used in conjunction with a safe, must be placed either inside or underneath the safe whenever feasible. Alternate equivalent detection equipment may be used.

4.6.1.4 All electrical conduit for the alarm system, security equipment, lighting, telephone, etc. shall be in accordance with any applicable electrical code. All conduit entering the walls, ceiling, or floor shall have at least one offset within the vault structure. Arrangement of bends shall be so that drainage is to the exterior. Conduit shall not exceed 3.8 cm (1 ½") diameter.

4.6.1.5 The secure environs if they include a vault, safe or caged area, must be located at least 1 metre (3') from any outside wall if located on a ground floor or an accessible roof. The Office may consider certain conditions to be equivalent to the 1 metre (3') requirements. These conditions may be in the form of another building in close proximity to the secure environs, ditches, cement pylons, etc. The 1 metre (3') requirement applies, regardless of the distance from the ground or accessible roof, if construction is to be against a wall which is common to another company.

4.6.1.6 Ventilation - Openings in the vault for ventilation or air conditioning must not reduce the overall security of the vault. In instances where either a circulation of air or air conditioning is necessary, one of the following conditions must be met:

  1. Openings must have one dimension of 15 cm (6") or less and the total area of the opening cannot exceed 619 cm2 (96in2).
  2. The opening or duct work must be protected by the installation of N° 5 (15 mm (5/8")) steel reinforcing rods securely anchored into the wall on 15 cm (6") centers and horizontally reinforced on 40 cm (16") centers, or a grill.
  3. If a grill is to be used it is to be constructed of either N° 5 (15 mm (5/8")) steel reinforcing rods on 15 cm (6") centers and horizontally reinforced on 40 cm (16") centers, or 3.5 mm (10 gauge) expanded metal mesh, welded into a 6 mm (1/4") metal frame. The frame is to be securely anchored to the wall.

4.6.2 Secure Environs (Vault)

4.6.2.1 Walls

Cement block

20 cm (8") high density concrete blocks with cores filled with type "M" mortar and reinforced as required to meet structural codes, or

Poured concrete

  1. 15 cm (6") thick poured concrete (20.7 MPa (3000 lbs/in2) minimum).
  2. Reinforced as required to meet structural codes.

Ceiling/floor

  1. 15 cm (6") thick poured concrete (20.7 MPa (3000 lbs/in2) minimum).
  2. Reinforced as required to meet structural codes.

Door

  1. 1.5 mm (16 gauge) hollow metal door with a 1.9 mm (14 gauge) metal frame.
  2. Grouted or blocked in the area of the strike plate.
  3. Locking device must penetrate the door frame at least 1.25 cm or be a vertical throw locking device.
  4. Not to be on a master key system.
  5. Records of the issuing of combinations and keys, under the authorization of an officer in the institution, shall be maintained and be available to inspectors of the Department.

4.6.3 Safe

4.6.3.1 A records safe (fire resistant safe) may be used for this level of security providing it has a U.L.C. (Underwriters Laboratories of Canada) rating of class A, B, or C (New Ratings 350-4, 350-2, 350-1 respectively).

4.6.3.2 It should be noted that the class "C" safe offers the same force resistance as the class "A" and "B" safes. Class "A" and "B" safes are constructed with more insulating material which results in increased fire protection for the contents.

4.6.3.3 The safe can be installed in a room which is normally under a lock and key system. The room must be equipped with a detector which will indicate when there is an unauthorized attempt to open the door. The room and door must meet the requirements of 4.4.2.2 and 4.4.3.2.

4.6.3.4 Records of the issuing of combinations and keys, under the authorization of an officer in the institution, shall be maintained and be available to inspectors of the Department.

4.6.3.5 If the safe is located in a metal caged area, in lieu of a locked room, the cage must meet the requirements outlined in Appendix D.

4.6.3.6 Safe must be anchored to the floor in such a manner that it cannot be removed without first opening the door.

4.6.4 Cage

4.6.4.1 Only finished products listed in Appendix D may be held in a caged area. Appendix D also identifies the requirements for both the cage's construction and its electrical detection equipment.

4.7 Security level - 6

4.7.1 General

4.7.1.1 The following are the minimum requirements which the Office will accept for level 6 security. This level is determined by the location of the Licence Holder and the maximum inventory. The monetary value of the inventory is calculated using the illicit value of the drug. (See Appendix B, Table 1).

4.7.1.2 The Office will consider alternate forms of secure environs, such as laminates, providing they are equal in force resistance to the examples given below.

4.7.1.3 Minimum electrical detection requirements:

  1. A smoke detector installed inside vault.
  2. Sufficient detectors to indicate when there is an unauthorized attempt to access, penetrate, remove, or open the vault or safe.
  3. Detectors which will indicate when there is an unauthorized opening of the vault or safe door or any attempt to circumvent the detector is made.
  4. All vault and safe alarms on one zone which is separate from other detection devices installed in the warehouse.
  5. Electrical detection equipment is to be monitored by a monitoring station. Minimum Grade "B" line supervision is required.
  6. Control boxes for the security system are to be located inside the vault or safe.
  7. Proximity detector (capacitance detector) if used in conjunction with a safe must be placed either inside or underneath the safe whenever feasible. Alternate equivalent detection equipment may be used.

4.7.1.4 All electrical conduits for the alarm system, security equipment, lighting, telephone, etc. shall be in accordance with any applicable electrical code. All conduit entering the walls, ceiling, or floor shall have at least one offset within the vault structure. Arrangement of bends shall be so that drainage is to the exterior. Conduit shall not exceed 3.8 cm (1 ½") diameter.

4.7.1.5 The secure environs if they include a vault, safe or caged area, are to be located at least 1 metre (3') from any outside wall if located on a ground floor or an accessible roof. The Office may consider certain conditions to be equivalent to the 1 metre (3') requirements. These conditions may be in the form of another building in close proximity to the secure environs, ditches, cement pylons, etc. The 1 metre (3') requirement applies, regardless of the distance from the ground or accessible roof, if construction is to be against a wall which is common to another company.

4.7.1.6 Ventilation - Openings in the vault for ventilation or air conditioning must not reduce the overall security of the vault. In instances where either a circulation of air or air conditioning is necessary, one of the following conditions must be met:

  1. Openings must have one dimension of 15 cm (6") or less and the total area of the opening cannot exceed 619 cm2(96in2).
  2. The opening or duct work must be protected by the installation of N° 5 (15 mm (5/8")) steel reinforcing rods securely anchored into the wall on 15 cm (6") centers and horizontally reinforced on 40 cm (16") centers, or a grill.
  3. If a grill is to be used it is to be constructed of either N° 5 (15 mm (5/8")) steel reinforcing rods on 15 cm (6") centers and horizontally reinforced on 40 cm (16") centers, or 3.5 mm (10 gauge) expanded metal mesh, welded into a 6 mm (1/4") metal frame. The frame is to be securely anchored to the wall.

4.7.2 Secure environs (Vault)

4.7.2.1 Walls

Cement block

30 cm (12") high density cement blocks with cores filled with type "M" mortar and reinforced to meet structural codes, or

Poured concrete

  1. 20 cm (8") thick poured concrete (20.7 MPa (3000 lbs/in2) minimum).
  2. Reinforced to meet structural codes.

Ceiling/floor

  1. 20 cm (8") thick poured concrete (20.7 MPa (3000 lbs/in2) minimum).
  2. Reinforced to meet structural codes.

4.7.2.2 Door

  1. Solid wooden door wrapped with 1.5 mm (16 gauge) steel and a 1.9 mm (14 gauge) metal frame.
  2. Secured with an approved padlock (See Appendix E) and hasp. A multi-bolt lock system may be considered equivalent by the Department.

4.7.3 Safe

4.7.3.1 If a safe is to be used for level 6 security instead of a vault, it is to be a burglar resistant safe which is Underwriter Laboratories of Canada (ULC) rated at a level ULC‑TL‑15.

4.7.3.2 The safe can be installed in a room which is normally under a lock and key system. (See 6.3.5. below). The room must be equipped with a detector which will indicate when there is an unauthorized attempt to open the door. The room and door must meet the requirements of 4.4.2.2 and 4.4.3.2.

4.7.3.3 Records of the issuing of combinations and keys, under the authorization of an officer in the institution, shall be maintained and be available to inspectors of the Department.

4.7.3.4 Safe must be anchored to the floor in such a manner that it cannot be removed without first opening the door.

4.7.3.5 If the safe is located in a metal cage, in lieu of a locked room, the cage must meet the requirements outlined in Appendix D.

4.7.4 Cage

4.7.4.1 Only finished products listed in Appendix D may be held in a caged area. Appendix D also identifies the requirements for both the cage's construction and its electrical detection equipment.

4.8 Security level - 7

4.8.1 General

4.8.1.1 The following are the minimum requirements which the Office will accept for level 7 security. This level is determined by the location of the Licence Holder and the maximum inventory. The monetary value of the inventory is calculated using the illicit value of the drug. (See Appendix B, Table 1).

4.8.1.2 The Office will consider alternate forms of secure environs, such as laminates, providing they are equal in force resistance to the examples given below.

4.8.1.3 Minimum electrical detection requirements:

  1. A Smoke detector installed inside the vault.
  2. Sufficient detectors to indicate when there is an unauthorized attempt to access, penetrate, remove, or open the vault or safe.
  3. Detectors which will indicate when there is an unauthorized opening of the vault or safe door or any attempt to circumvent the detector is made.
  4. All vault and safe alarms on one zone which is separate from other detection devices installed in the warehouse.
  5. Vault or safe alarm equipment is to be monitored by a U.L.C. (Underwriters Laboratories of Canada) approved central monitoring station. When such service is unavailable the Office will consider alternates.
  6. Grade "B" Line supervision.
  7. Control boxes for the security system are to be located inside the vault or safe.
  8. Proximity detector (capacitance detector) if used in conjunction with a safe must be placed either inside or underneath the safe whenever feasible.

4.8.1.4 All electrical conduits for the alarm system, security equipment, lighting, telephone, etc. shall be in accordance with any applicable electrical code. All conduit entering the walls, ceiling, or floor shall have at least one offset within the vault structure. Arrangement of bends shall be so that drainage is to the exterior. Conduit shall not exceed 3.8 cm (1 1/2") diameter.

4.8.1.5 The secure environs if they include a vault, safe or caged area, are to be located at least 1 metre (3') from any outside wall if located on a ground floor or an accessible roof. The Office may consider certain conditions to be equivalent to the 1 metre (3') requirements. These conditions may be in the form of another building in close proximity to the secure environs, ditches, cement pylons, etc. The 1 metre (3') requirement applies, regardless of the distance from the ground or accessible roof, if construction is to be against a wall which is common to another company.

4.8.1.6 Ventilation - Openings in the vault for ventilation or air conditioning must not reduce the overall security of the vault. In instances where either a circulation of air or air conditioning is necessary, one of the following conditions must be met:

  1. Openings must have one dimension of 15 cm (6") or less and the total area of the opening cannot exceed 619 cm2(96in2).
  2. The opening or duct work must be protected by the installation of N° 5 (15 mm (5/8")) steel reinforcing rods securely anchored into the wall on 15 cm (6") centers and horizontally reinforced on 40 cm (16") centers, or a grill.
  3. If a grill is to be used it is to be constructed of either N° 5 (15 mm (5/8")) steel reinforcing rods on 15 cm (6") centers and horizontally reinforced on 40 cm (16") centers, or 3.5 mm (10 gauge) expanded metal mesh, welded into a 6 mm (1/4") metal frame. The frame is to be securely anchored to the wall.

4.8.2 Secure environs (Vault)

4.8.2.1 Walls

Cement block

High density concrete block wall 15 cm (6") thick reinforced in every void with N° 5 (15 mm (5/8")) deformed steel reinforcing bars. Each void filled with type "M" mortar, or

Poured concrete (20.7 MPa (3000 lb/in2) minimum).

10 cm (4") poured concrete reinforced every 20 cm (8") with deformed steel reinforcing bars N° 5 (15 mm (5/8")) thick in both directions or reinforced using 3.5 mm (10 gauge) expanded metal mesh which has opening 5 x 2.5 cm (2" x 1").

Ceiling/floor

10 cm (4") poured concrete (20.7 MPa (3000 lb/in2) minimum) reinforced with N° 5 (15 mm (5/8")) deformed steel reinforcing bars every 20 cm (8") in both directions or reinforced with 3.5 mm (10 gauge) expanded metal mesh which has opening 5 x 2.5 cm (2" x 1").

4.8.2.2 Door

  1. Any fire resistant bank type vault door will be acceptable. (Insulated Record Storage Vault Door).
  2. Combination lock is to be changeable, manipulation proof, possessing at least 3 tumblers and have a spy proof dial.
  3. The lock combination must be stored in a secure location and changed yearly, or whenever a person knowing the combination no longer requires it.

4.8.3 Safe

4.8.3.1 If a safe is to be used for level 7 security instead of a vault, it is to be a burglar resistant safe which is Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (ULC) rated at a level ULC‑TL‑30.

4.8.3.2 The safe is to be located in a caged area which meets the requirements described in Appendix D.

4.8.3.3 The caged area described in 4.8.3.3 must be located in a locked room.

4.8.3.4 Safe must be anchored to the floor in such a manner that it cannot be removed without first opening the safe door.

4.8.3.5 If the safe is equipped with a combination lock, the lock combination must be stored in a secure location and changed yearly, or whenever a person knowing the combination no longer requires it.

4.8.4 Cage

4.8.4.1 Only finished products listed in Appendix D may be held in a caged area. Appendix D also identifies the requirements for both the cage's construction and its electrical detection equipment.

4.9 Security level - 8

4.9.1 General

4.9.1.1 The following are the minimum requirements which the Office will accept for level 8 security. This level is determined by the location of the Licence Holder and the maximum inventory. The monetary value of the inventory is calculated using the illicit value of the drug. (See Appendix B, Table 1).

4.9.1.2 The Office will consider alternate forms of secure environs, such as laminates, providing they are equal in force resistance to the examples given below.

4.9.2.3 Minimum electrical detection requirements:

  1. A smoke detector installed inside the vault.
  2. Sufficient detectors to indicate when there is an unauthorized attempt to access, penetrate, remove, or open the vault or safe.
  3. Detectors which will indicate when there is an unauthorized opening of the vault or safe door or any attempt to circumvent the detector is made.
  4. All vault and safe alarms on one zone which is separate from other detection devices installed in the warehouse.
  5. Vault or safe alarm equipment is to be monitored by a U.L.C. (Underwriters Laboratories of Canada) approved central monitoring station. When such service is unavailable the Office will consider alternates.
  6. Grade double "B" Line supervision.
  7. Control boxes for the security system are to be located inside the vault or safe.
  8. Proximity detector (capacitance detector) if used in conjunction with a safe must be placed either inside or underneath the safe whenever feasible. Alternate equivalent detection equipment may be used.
  9. When the building lacks complete perimeter security coverage, all accessible exterior vault walls, floor and ceiling must be provided with motion detectors or approved alternate detectors to provide effective motion detection.
  10. Electrical detection equipment is required for the caged area.

4.9.1.4 All electrical conduits for the alarm system, security equipment, lighting, telephone, etc. shall be in accordance with any applicable electrical code. All conduit entering the walls, ceiling, or floor shall have at least one offset within the vault structure. Arrangement of bends shall be so that drainage is to the exterior. Conduit shall not exceed 3.8 cm (1 1/2") diameter.

4.9.1.5 The secure environs if they include a vault, safe or caged area, are to be located at least 1 metre (3') from any outside wall if located on a ground floor or an accessible roof. The Office may consider certain conditions to be equivalent to the 1 metre (3') requirements. These conditions may be in the form of another building in close proximity to the secure environs, ditches, cement pylons, etc. The 1 metre (3') requirement applies, regardless of the distance from the ground or accessible roof, if construction is to be against a wall which is common to another company.

4.9.1.6 Ventilation - Openings in the vault for ventilation or air conditioning must not reduce the overall security of the vault. In instances where either a circulation of air or air conditioning is necessary, one of the following conditions must be met:

  1. Openings must have one dimension of 15 cm (6") or less and the total area of the opening cannot exceed 619 cm2 (96in2).
  2. The opening or duct work must be protected by the installation of N° 5 (15 mm (5/8")) steel reinforcing rods securely anchored into the wall on 15 cm (6") centers and horizontally reinforced on 40 cm (16") centers, or a grill.
  3. If a grill is to be used it is to be constructed of either N° 5 (15 mm (5/8")) steel reinforcing rods on 15 cm (6") centers and horizontally reinforced on 40 cm (16") centers, or 3.5 mm (10 gauge) expanded metal mesh, welded into a 6 mm (1/4") metal frame. The frame is to be securely anchored to the wall.
  4. A clear area of 0.6 metres (2') around vault to be used for inspection and detection purposes shall be maintained around all safes and vaults in this category.

4.9.2 Secure environs (Vault)

4.9.2.1 Walls

Cement block

High density concrete block 20 cm (8") thick reinforced with N° 5 (15 mm (5/8")) deformed steel reinforcing bars in every void. Each void is also to be filled with type "M" concrete, or

Poured concrete (20.7 MPa (3000 lb/in2) minimum).

Poured concrete 15 cm (6") thick and reinforced using N° 5 (15 mm (5/8")) deformed steel reinforcing bars every 8" vertically and every 60 cm (24") horizontally or reinforced using 3.5 mm (10 gauge) expanded metal mesh which has opening 5 cm x 2.5 cm (2" x 1").

Ceiling/floor

Poured concrete (20.7 MPa (3000 lb/in2) minimum) 15 cm (6") thick reinforced using N° 5 (15 mm (5/8")) deformed steel reinforcing bars every 20 cm (8") in one direction and every 60 cm (24") in the opposite direction or reinforced by using 3.5 mm (10 gauge) expanded metal mesh which has an opening 5 cm x 2.5 cm (2" x 1").

Floor on grade

Poured concrete (20.7 MPa (3000 lb/in2) minimum) 10 cm (4") thick (supporting foundation for vault walls may be required).

 4.9.2.2 Door

  1. A fire resistant bank type door is acceptable providing the face plate is a minimum of 0.62 cm (1/4") steel and the door possesses a relocking device. (Insulated Record Storage vault door).
  2. Combination lock is to be changeable, manipulation proof possessing at least 3 tumblers and have a spy proof dial.
  3. The lock combination must be stored in a secure location and changed yearly, or when a person knowing the combination no longer requires it.

4.9.3 Safe

4.9.3.1 If a safe is to be used for level 8 security instead of a vault, it is to be a burglar resistant safe which is Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (ULC) rated at a level TRTL‑30.

4.9.3.2 The safe is located in a caged area which meets the requirements described in Appendix D.

4.9.3.3 The caged area described in 4.9.3.2 must be located in a locked room.

4.9.3.4 The safe is to be anchored to the floor in such a manner that it cannot be removed without first opening the door.

4.9.3.5 If the safe is equipped with a combination lock, the lock combination must be stored in a secure location and changed yearly, or whenever a person knowing the combination no longer requires it.

4.9.4 Cage

4.9.4.1 Only finished products listed in Appendix D may be held in a caged area. Appendix D also identifies the requirements for both the cage's construction and its electrical detection equipment.

4.10 Security level - 9

4.10.1 General

4.10.1.1 The following are the minimum requirements which the Office will accept for level 9 security. This level is determined by the location of the Licence Holder and the maximum inventory. The monetary value of the inventory is calculated using the illicit value of the drug. (See Appendix B, Table 1).

4.10.1.2 The Office will consider alternate forms of secure environs, such as laminates, providing they are equal in force resistance to the examples given below.

4.10.1.3 Minimum electrical detection requirements:

  1. A smoke detector installed inside the vault.
  2. Sufficient detectors to indicate when there is an unauthorized attempt to access, penetrate, remove, or open the vault or safe.
  3. Detectors which will indicate when there is an unauthorized opening of the vault or safe door or any attempt to circumvent the detector is made.
  4. All vault and safe alarms on one zone which is separate from other detection devices installed in the warehouse.
  5. Vault or safe alarm equipment is to be monitored by a U.L.C. (Underwriters Laboratories of Canada) approved central monitoring station. When such service is unavailable the Office will consider alternates.
  6. Grade "A" Line supervision.
  7. All alarm control boxes are to be mounted inside the vault or safe and possess either a keyed time delay circuit or digital code call in.
  8. Proximity detector (capacitance detector) if used in conjunction with a safe must be placed either inside or underneath the safe whenever feasible.
  9. Complete exterior electrical detection of the walls and ceiling with motion detectors or alternate detectors to provide effective movement detection of the 0.6 metre clear area as defined in 4.10.1.7.
  10. Electrical detection equipment is required for caged area.
  11. Additional detection equipment as required. When the building lacks complete perimeter security coverage, that portion of the room or area which contains the vault and/or cage must have sufficient electrical detection equipment to indicate when there is an unauthorized attempt to access this area.

4.10.1.4 All electrical conduits for the alarm system, security equipment, lighting, telephone, etc. shall be in accordance with any applicable electrical code. All conduit entering the walls, ceiling, or floor shall have at least one offset within the vault structure. Arrangement of bends shall be so that drainage is to the exterior. Conduit shall not exceed 3.8 cm (1 1/2") diameter.

4.10.1.5 The secure environs if they include a vault, safe or caged area, are to be located at least 1 metre (3') from any outside wall if located on a ground floor or an accessible roof. The Office may consider certain conditions to be equivalent to the 1 metre (3') requirements. These conditions may be in the form of another building in close proximity to the secure environs, ditches, cement pylons, etc. The 1 metre (3') requirement applies, regardless of the distance from the ground or accessible roof, if construction is to be against a wall which is common to another company.

4.10.1.6 Ventilation - Openings in the vault for ventilation or air conditioning must not reduce the overall security of the vault. In instances where either a circulation of air or air conditioning is necessary, one of the following conditions must be met:

  1. Openings must have one dimension of 15 cm (6") or less and the total area of the opening cannot exceed 619 cm2 (96in2).
  2. The opening or duct work must be protected by the installation of N° 5 (15 mm (5/8")) steel reinforcing rods securely anchored into the wall on 15 cm (6") centers and horizontally reinforced on 40 cm (16") centers, or a grill.
  3. If a grill is to be used it is to be constructed of either N° 5 (15 mm (5/8")) steel reinforcing rods on 15 cm (6") centers and horizontally reinforced on 40 cm (16") centers, or 3.5 mm (10 gauge) expanded metal mesh, welded into a 6 mm (1/4") metal frame. The frame is to be securely anchored to the wall.

4.10.1.7 A clear area of 0.6 metres (2') around vault to be used for inspection and detection purposes shall be maintained around all safes and vaults in this category.

4.10.2 Secure Environs (Vault)

4.10.2.1 Walls

Cement block

High density concrete block 30 cm (12") thick reinforced in each void with N° 5 (15 mm (5/8")) deformed steel bars vertically and horizontally on each layer of blocks with steel truss block reinforcing. Each void to be filled with type "M" mortar, or

Poured concrete (20.7 MPa (3000 lb/in2) minimum)

Poured concrete 20 cm (8") thick reinforced with N° 5 (15 mm (5/8")) deformed steel reinforcing bars placed every 15 cm (6") in both directions.

Ceiling/floor

Poured concrete (20.7 MPa (3000 lb/in2) minimum) 20 cm (8") thick reinforced with N° 5 (15 mm (5/8")) deformed steel reinforcing bars placed every 15 cm (6") in both directions.

Floor on grade

Poured concrete (20.7 MPa (3000 lb/in2) minimum) 10 cm (4") thick (supporting foundation for vault walls may be required).

Note: If a cage is to be used in conjunction with the vault, the cage must contain the vault where physically possible with a 0.6 metre (2') standoff. This clear area is not to be used for the storage of controlled substances or drugs containing cannabis.

4.10.2.2 Door

  1. Bank type vault door which has a minimum steel face plate of 1.25 cm (1/2").
  2. Combination lock is to be changeable, manipulation proof possessing at least 3 tumblers and have a spy proof dial.
  3. The lock combination must be stored in a secure location and changed yearly, or when a person knowing the combination no longer requires it.
  4. Door to have relocking device.

4.10.3 Safe

4.10.3.1 If a safe is to be used for level 9 security instead of a vault, it is to be a burglar resistant safe which is Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (ULC) rated at a level TRTL‑30 x 6.

4.10.3.2 The safe is to be located in a caged area which meets the requirements described in Appendix D.

4.10.3.3 The caged area described in 4.10.3.3 must be located in a locked room.

4.10.3.4 The safe is to be anchored to the floor in such a manner that it cannot be removed without first opening the door.

4.10.3.5 If the safe is equipped with a combination lock, the lock combination must be stored in a secure location and changed yearly, or whenever a person knowing the combination no longer requires it.

4.10.4 Cage

4.10.4.1 Only finished products listed in Appendix D may be held in a caged area. Appendix D also identifies the requirements for both the cage's construction and its electrical detection equipment.

4.11 Security level - 10

4.11.1 General

4.11.1.1 The following are the minimum requirements which the Office will accept for level 10 security. This level is determined by the location of the Licence Holder and the maximum inventory. The monetary value of the inventory is calculated using the illicit value of the drug. (See Appendix B, Table 1).

4.11.1.2 The Office will consider alternate forms of secure environs, such as laminates, providing they are equal in force resistance to the examples given below.

4.11.1.3 Minimum Electrical Detection Requirements:

  1. A smoke detector installed inside the vault.
  2. Sufficient detectors to indicate when there is an unauthorized attempt to access, penetrate, remove, or open the vault or safe.
  3. Detectors which will indicate when there is an unauthorized opening of the vault or safe door or any attempt to circumvent the detector is made.
  4. All vault and safe alarms on one zone which is separate from other detection devices installed in the warehouse.
  5. Vault or safe alarm equipment is to be monitored by a U.L.C. (Underwriters Laboratories of Canada) approved central monitoring station. When such service is unavailable the Office will consider alternates.
  6. Grade double "A" Line supervision.
  7. All alarm control boxes are to be mounted inside the vault or safe and possess either a keyed time delay circuit or digital code call in.
  8. Proximity detector (capacitance detector) if used in conjunction with a safe must be placed either inside or underneath the safe whenever feasible.
  9. Complete exterior electrical detection of the walls and ceiling with motion detectors or approved alternate detectors to provide effective movement detection of the 0.6 metre clear area as defined in 4.11.1.7.
  10. Electrical detection equipment is required for caged area.
  11. Additional detection equipment as required. When the building lacks complete perimeter security coverage, the room which contains the vault must have sufficient electrical detection equipment to indicate an unauthorized attempt to access this area.

4.11.1.4 All electrical conduits for the alarm system, security equipment, lighting, telephone, etc. shall be in accordance with any applicable electrical code. All conduit entering the walls, ceiling, or floor shall have at least one offset within the vault structure. Arrangement of bends shall be so that drainage is to the exterior. Conduit shall not exceed 3.8 cm (1 1/2") diameter.

4.11.1.5 The secure environs if they include a vault, safe or caged area, are to be located at least 1 metre (3') from any outside wall if located on a ground floor or an accessible roof. The Office may consider certain conditions to be equivalent to the 1 metre (3') requirements. These conditions may be in the form of another building in close proximity to the secure environs, ditches, cement pylons, etc. The 1 metre (3') requirement applies, regardless of the distance from the ground or accessible roof, if construction is to be against a wall which is common to another company.

4.11.1.6 Ventilation - Openings in the vault for ventilation or air conditioning must not reduce the overall security of the vault. In instances where either a circulation of air or air conditioning is necessary, one of the following conditions must be met:

  1. Openings must have one dimension 15 cm (6") or less and the total area of the opening cannot exceed 619 cm2 (96in2).
  2. The opening or duct work must be protected by the installation of N° 5 (15 mm (5/8")) steel reinforcing rods securely anchored into the wall on 15 cm (6") centers and horizontally reinforced on 40 cm (16") centers, or a grill.
  3. If a grill is to be used it is to be constructed of either N° 5 (15 mm (5/8")) steel reinforcing rods on 15 cm (6") centers and horizontally reinforced on 40 cm (16") centers, or 3.5 mm (10 gauge) expanded metal mesh, welded into a 6 mm (1/4") metal frame. The frame is to be securely anchored to the wall.

4.11.1.7 A clear area of 0.6 metres (2') around vault to be used for the inspection and detection purposes shall be maintained around all safes and vaults in this category.

4.11.2 Secure environs (Vault)

4.11.2.1 Walls/ceiling/floor (Floor on grade)

  1. Poured concrete 45 cm (18") in thickness which must develop anultimate compression strength of at least 20.7 MPa (3000 lb/in2) minimum.
  2. Wall reinforcement requires 4 grids of N° 5 (15 mm (5/8")) deformed steel. Reinforcing rods are located on 10 cm (4") centres in horizontal and vertical rows to form one of the required grids. If expanded steel bank vault mesh is used, 3 grids of the mesh are required. This steel mesh is to weigh 29 kg/in2 (6 lb/ft2) per grid and to have a diamond pattern of 7.5 cm x 20 cm (3" x 8").
  3. Grids are to be located not less than 10 cm (4") apart and shall be staggered in each direction.
  4. Due to the weight of the walls/ceiling a supporting foundation may be required.

Note: The above is an indication of the minimum security required for this level. A laminate type of vault using steel and poured concrete/cement blocks may be considered by the Office to be equivalent to the above vault.

Note: A cage is to be used in conjunction with this vault and will extend completely around the vault with a 0.6 meter (2') standoff. This clear area is not to be used for the storage of controlled substances or drugs containing cannabis.

4.11.2.2 Door

  1. Minimum of 2.5 cm (1") steel on the face of this force resistant type door.
  2. Combination lock is to be changeable and manipulation proof with at least 3 tumblers and equipped with a spy proof dial.
  3. The lock combination is to be stored in a secure location and changed yearly, or when a person knowing the combination no longer requires it.
  4. Door to have relocking device.

4.11.3 Safe

4.11.3.1 If a safe is to be used for level 10 security it is to be a burglar resistant type which has been U.L.C. (Underwriters Laboratories of Canada) rated at a level TXTL‑60X6.

4.11.3.2 This class of safe may not be easily acquired but can be purchased on a special order. The Office may consider a combination of two or more safes to be equivalent to level 10 security requirement depending on U.L.C. ratings of the safes being used.

4.11.3.3 The safe is to be located in a caged area which meets the requirements described in Appendix D.

4.11.3.4 The caged area described in 4.11.3.3 must be located in a locked room.

4.11.3.5 If the safe is equipped with a combination lock, the lock combination must be stored in a secure location and changed yearly, or whenever a person knowing the combination no longer requires it.

4.11.3.5 The safe is to be anchored to the floor in such a manner that it cannot be removed without first opening the door.

4.11.4 Cage

4.11.4.1 Only finished products listed in Appendix D may be held in a caged area. Appendix D also identifies the requirements for both the cage's construction and its electrical detection equipment.

4.12 Security level - 11

4.12.1 General

4.12.1.1 Licence Holders who require level 11 security are to submit their proposals to the Department for evaluation. Due to the extremely high illicit value of the inventory to be maintained at this level, the Office judges each proposal on its own merits. However, the security must exceed the level 10 requirements.

4.12.1.2 It may aid the review process if a diagram of the building is supplied indicating the location of doors, windows, vault, and intrusion detectors as well as the location of the proposed vault. The security proposal is to cover the following topics:

Building

  1. Briefly describe the general building construction of walls, roof and floor indicating their thickness and types of material used.
  2. Indicate:
    1. The number of floors in the building as well as those utilized by your company.
    2. The names of other companies located within this building.
    3. The type of business conducted by the other companies.
    4. Is external building lighting used?
    5. Is there an electrical intruder detection system used throughout the building? Please describe and indicate how it is monitored.
    6. Is a guard service utilized? If so, do the guards patrol both outside and inside the building?
    7. Is there a parking lot in close proximity to the building? If so, are there bumpers, or pylons used in the parking lot and/or around the building at sufficient intervals to prevent vehicles from hitting the walls?
    8. Is there a perimeter fence around your building?

4.12.1.3 Minimum electrical detection requirements

  1. Describe the electrical detection equipment to be used outside and around the vault. Indicate the type and manufacturer.
  2. Describe the electrical detection equipment to be used inside the vault.
  3. Is the vault detection equipment on a separate zone from other surveillance equipment used in the building?
  4. Grade double "A" line supervision is required and monitored by a central monitoring station.
  5. Vault control box is to be installed inside the vault.

4.12.1.4 All electrical conduits for the alarm system, security equipment, lighting, telephone, etc. shall be in accordance with any applicable electrical code. All conduit entering the walls, ceiling, or floor shall have at least one offset within the vault structure. Arrangements of bends shall be so that drainage is to the exterior. Conduit shall not exceed 3.8 cm (1 1/2") diameter.

4.12.1.5 The secure environs are to be located at least 1 metre (3') from any outside wall if located on a ground floor or accessible from a roof. The 1 meter (3') requirement applies, regardless of the distance from the ground or accessible roof, if construction is to be against a wall which is common to another company.

4.12.1.6 Ventilation - Describe any opening in the vault to be used for ventilation or air conditioning, and explain how the opening will be protected.

4.12.1.7 A clear fenced area of at least 0.6 meters (2') to be used for inspection and detection purposes shall be maintained completely around all vaults in this category. (See Appendix D for the requirements of fence (cage) construction). This clear area is not to be used for the storage of controlled substances or drugs containing cannabis.

4.12.2 Secure environs (Vault)

4.12.2.1 Walls/ceiling/floor (Floor on grade)

  1. Indicate the location of the vault within the building.
  2. Describe the material used in construction of the vault:
    1. Type of vault ‑ poured concrete or cement block or laminate construction.
    2. Wall thickness.
    3. Grade of cement used ‑ 13.8 MPa (2000 p.s.i), 20.7 MPa (3000 p.s.i) etc.
  3. Reinforcing material used in walls, floor and ceiling. Indicate the gauge of the reinforcing rods and at what intervals they are placed.
  4. If a laminate type vault is to be used, describe the construction. A laminate type vault utilizes a variety of building materials sandwiched together (i.e. plywood, steel mesh, polycarbonate, etc.).

4.12.2.2 Door

  1. Please describe the door to be used and also indicate the manufacturer and the model.
  2. Indicate the thickness of the steel face plate of the door.
  3. Describe the type of combination lock to be used on the vault door.
  4. Door to have relocking device.

4.12.3 Cage

4.12.3.1 Only finished products listed in Appendix D may be held in a caged area. Appendix D also identifies the requirements for both the cage's construction and its electrical detection equipment.

5. Appendix D - List of controlled substances and drugs containing cannabis that can be stored in a cage

Only certain drugs and formulations in their finished form and in their final packaging can be stored in the caged area. All other controlled substances and drugs containing cannabis must be stored in the secure environs as per the corresponding security level detail in this directive. The finished products that can be stored in the cage areas include:

  1. Verbal Prescription Narcotics (see Narcotic Control Regulations, section 2) except:
    1. Formulations containing Pentazocine, or
    2. Formulations containing a controlled drug
  2. Preparations containing codeine mentioned in section 36 of the Narcotic Control Regulations.
  3. Formulations of narcotics which contain:
    1. Propoxyphene or dextropropoxyphene ‑ when the amount of dextropropoxyphene per tablet, capsule, ampoule or vial does not exceed 100 mg.
  4. Controlled drug including preparations (see Food and Drug Regulations, section G.01.001) except those containing:
    1. a narcotic, or
    2. Methaqualone
  5. Preparations of controlled drugs, not having a second controlled drug, which contain only:
    1. Phenobarbital ‑ when the amount of phenobarbital per tablet, capsule, ampoule or vial does not exceed 100 mg.
    2. Thiopental ‑ when the amount of thiopental in the container being stored is not more than 5 g.
    3. Thiamylal ‑ when the amount of thiamylal in the container being stored is not more than 5 g, or
    4. Methohexital ‑ when the amount of methohexital in the container being stored is not more than 5 g.
  6. Anabolic steroids
  7. Targeted substances (see section 1 of the Benzodiazepines and Other Targeted Substances Regulations)
  8. Drugs containing cannabis.

5.1 Cages

5.1.1 General

5.1.1.1 The caged area is to be located at least 1 metre (3') from an outside wall if located on a ground floor or accessible from a roof. The Office considers a common wall shared with another firm to be an outside wall, therefore, a 1 metre (3') free area is required. The Office may consider equivalents to the 1 metre (3') free area (see examples 4.5.1.5).

5.1.1.2 The caged area must be located in a locked room.

5.1.1.3 There must be sufficient electrical detection to detect unauthorized movement within the caged area.

5.1.1.4 Cage door or gate to be secured with an approved padlock (see Appendix E) or its equivalent.

5.1.2 Cage construction

5.1.2.1 Walls/ceiling

The walls and ceiling of a caged area must be constructed of 3.5 mm (10 gauge) rolled and flattened metal mesh which has 2.5 cm x 5 cm (1" x 2") diamond shaped openings securely fastened together. If the existing floor and ceiling are to be used then the walls are to extend from structural floor to structural ceiling. The gate or door must provide force resistance equivalent to that of the walls and ceiling and be equipped with electrical door contacts.

6. Appendix E - Padlocks

The following is a list of some of the padlocks available which meet or exceed the Office's requirements. Alternative locking mechanisms with the equivalent or higher safety rating will be considered.

Table 4: Padlocks which meet or exceed requirements
Manufacturer clearance Model Shackle diameter (mm) Shackle (mm)
Abloy 3071 11 25
American 570 (with dead locking) 10 28
Best 27b462
(with security sheath)
12 32
Master 15 11 25
Medeco 50-600 10 25
Papaiz Cr60 10 35
Viro 304/60 mm 10 35

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