In recent years, the number of cannabis sellers in Alberta has gone sky-high, with more than 700 stores across the province. Because of the product’s unique nature, cannabis sellers must follow specific rules set out by Alberta Gaming Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) before opening. An integral part of the regulations is alarms and security cameras. Here’s what you need to know.
ALARM SYSTEMS FOR CANNABIS STORES
Every cannabis retailer must have a monitored alarm system. A professional security company must install and monitor the alarm system, so there’s no DIY option. The alarm system must be able to:
Detect all attempts to tamper with or open doors and windows or attempts to enter the building and cannabis storage room.
Detect unauthorized movements within the store or storage room.
Detect tampering with the system or malfunctions. A professional commercial security technician must make any repairs.
The alarm system must include panic/robbery buttons at every point-of-sale location. The seller must also submit their alarm system plan to AGLC for approval before installation.
SECURITY CAMERA SYSTEMS FOR CANNABIS STORES
Cannabis stores in Alberta must also have a digital security camera system pre-approved by AGLC with the following features:
The cameras must be enclosed inside the ceiling or domes linked to a central, secure monitoring and recording system.
The cameras must be positioned to capture anyone entering, exiting and moving within the building, including staff areas.
There must be cameras pointed at all point-of-sale stations, shipping and receiving areas, customer areas and the cannabis storage room.
The system must have a minimum of 60-days of recording ability.
The system must be able to produce real-time colour videos or still images with a date stamp that doesn’t obscure the image.
The retailer must have a recording and viewing station in a secure area within the building. The station must have a visible surveillance plan showing camera numbers, locations, coverage, authorized users and operating instructions.
The seller must hand over any video to the police if they request it, and it’s illegal to destroy any relevant video even if you think there may be a criminal or regulatory investigation. Cannabis retailers must also test the system at least once a week, log the test results and immediately make any repairs.
ACCESS CONTROL FOR CANNABIS STORES
Although not required under AGLC rules, you should also consider installing a commercial access control system to prevent unauthorized personnel from entering restricted areas. An access control system also logs who entered the building and when. Moreover, multi-step and biometric authorization can add to your system's security level.
INDOOR SECURITY CAMERA INSTALLATION IN LETHBRIDGE AND CALGARY
At Guardian Security Solutions, we install alarm systems for retailers in the cannabis business that adhere to AGLC rules. We provide fire alarm fitting and indoor CCTV security camera installation, as well as surveillance systems to keep your business safe and your products secure. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your business. We’re located in Calgary and Lethbridge.