As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, it grapples with significant challenges related to theft and diversion. Despite limited statistics, the increasing market value of controlled substances, including cannabis, underscores the genuine threat faced by businesses.

Dispensary and grower theft

Instances of theft, ranging from armed robberies to overnight invasions, highlight the vulnerability of dispensaries and growers to criminal activities. Convergint stresses the importance of learning from other sectors, particularly the pharmaceutical industry, which has long confronted similar threats associated with Schedule I and II narcotics.

To address theft concerns, Convergint recommends implementing precautionary measures:

Secure storage

Adhering to secure storage requirements, including the use of safes and vaults for product overnight, acts as an extra line of defense against theft.

Cash handling

Given the absence of a banking solution, the industry’s reliance on cash flows appeals to potential intruders. Convergint advocates treating cash with the same reverence as product storage, emphasizing secure handling practices.

Video surveillance

Video surveillance is crucial for providing key forensic evidence in the event of a theft. Convergint highlights the importance of strategic, plentiful, and well-lit surveillance with cloud-based storage.

Access control

Implementing a state-of-the-art access control system is fundamental for facility protection. It not only provides time-stamped records of employee movement but also allows immediate adjustments to access permissions, ultimately controlling who goes where.

Dispensary and grower diversion

While theft grabs media attention, Convergint points out that the issue of diversion often goes under the radar. Industry experts estimate that employee theft accounts for a significant portion of financial and product loss, making it a critical concern for businesses. Convergint suggests the following strategies to reduce diversion:

Hiring procedures

Implementing thorough hiring procedures, including background checks and extreme vetting, is the first line of defense against employee theft.

Standard operating procedures

Developing meticulous standard operating procedures, including tight inventory controls, employee rotation, diversion response training, and access restrictions, is crucial for minimizing the risk of diversion.

Access control and surveillance

A robust access control system, combined with strategic video surveillance, plays a pivotal role in preventing diversion. Convergint emphasizes the importance of time-stamped access records and cloud-based storage for supporting forensic evidence.

Physical security measures

Consideration of physical security measures such as man-traps, safe entry portals, and wire cages is essential, tailored to the specific needs of the facility.

Learn more

Convergint encourages cannabis industry players to prioritize both theft and diversion prevention by adopting a comprehensive approach that combines secure storage protocols, cash handling practices, video surveillance, access control, and physical security measures. By learning from the experiences of other industries, businesses can fortify their defenses and contribute to the long-term sustainability and security of the growing cannabis market. Contact an expert today to learn how Convergint’s comprehensive security solutions can provide a safe and secure healthcare environment for cannabis dispensaries, growers, and processors.

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