As the cannabis business continues to grow, so do security needs for cannabis operators. As a billion-dollar industry and rapidly growing, cannabis dispensaries must comply with state laws for operations.
However, the majority of cannabis operators fall short of compliance for security and surveillance, neglecting to keep a close eye on inventory, something state law requires [1]. Lack of security can not only lead to legal repercussions, but also incidents such as break-ins and employee theft.
Security technology can help cannabis businesses meet surveillance requirements. But what technology do you need for a comprehensive solution? Here’s how you can invest in a system that meets your needs and complies with state law.
Have Adequate Video Quality and Storage According to State Law
Your surveillance system needs to monitor specific areas where employees handle cannabis and include cameras of a specific resolution for reliable monitoring. The stipulations vary per state, but all states require a minimum amount of stored video.
For example, the state of Maryland requires 24/7 surveillance for your cannabis facility, and the footage must be available for a minimum of 30 days [2].
Video surveillance must also record every stage of the plant’s lifecycle, from planting and trimming to packing, transportation, and disposal. Your surveillance technology needs to capture all these processes to meet compliance.
Invest in an Adaptable System for Evolving Security Standards
As the cannabis industry continues to grow, your business needs to be able to adapt to any updated security and surveillance requirements [3].
To do this, you don’t need an expensive system, but you do need a reliable one. Cannabis businesses that are in the process of opening don’t want the hassle of a complex security system. Still, they need to meet compliance for tracking their product and creating a video trail.
When investing in surveillance technology, you want to have an adaptable setup. Make sure it’s easy to add another camera, reposition an existing camera, or increase video storage. Cloud-based solutions are an excellent option that provides flexibility for stored video.
If security requirements change, you don’t want to have to invest in a new system and train employees all over again. Adaptable security technology makes it simple for cannabis operators to continue to stay in compliance.
Create a Comprehensive Security Plan for Compliance
Having a security plan for your cannabis business can help you meet state requirements and keep your product safe to protect profitability. When investing in security technology, keep in mind that you’ll likely need:
- Adequate lighting and potentially motion-sensing lights of monitored areas
- An access control system to ensure only authorized personnel enter
- Video of every access point, including windows or roof hatches
- Training for your team or authorized personnel to utilize the system
- A secure location to store and access your security system
- Monitoring of all areas where cannabis is grown or handled
- A way to identify each camera and its location
Every phase needs to be monitored, from where seeds are kept to the sale or transportation of the plant [4]. Technology can help you have an integrated solution where you can manage surveillance, access control, storage, and more from one system!
Our Professionals Are Here to Assist You!
At Surveillance Secure, our team is experienced in assisting cannabis operators with all their security and surveillance needs. From tracking your product to access control systems and more, we help you implement the right solution to gain compliance and keep your business safe and successful. Contact us today to find out more about how we can help at (877) 388-1248!
Sources:
- https://www.jurist.org/commentary/2020/03/griffen-thorne-ccpa-cannibas/
- https://mmcc.maryland.gov/Documents/COMAR%2010.62%20-%20Enforcement%20and%20Inspection%20Amendments.pdf
- https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cannabis-producers-turn-to-security-companies-as-the-industry-continues-to-expand-852651596.html
- https://www.securitymagazine.com/articles/91148-from-seed-to-sale-what-cannabis-operators-need-to-know-before-they-grow
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