Facility Security Measures

1. Restricted “Limited Access” Areas

Ohio regulations require facilities to designate secure zones for inventory, surveillance operations, destruction, and receival—each accessible only by registered staff. These areas must be clearly marked (“Do Not Enter—Restricted Access”) and constantly monitored via video surveillance to deter unauthorized access.

2. Advanced Alarm Systems

Dispensaries and distribution facilities must install commercial-grade alarms that cover all entry points and windows, include motion detectors, and feature silent/duress systems capable of sending immediate notifications to designated security personnel and law enforcement.

3. Video Surveillance & Monitoring

Ohio law mandates 24/7 video coverage across all critical areas—entrances, exits, restricted zones, point-of-sale areas, vaults, drive-through or curbside pickup zones. Cameras must capture clear, time-stamped footage (minimum 15 fps), store recordings for an extended period (typically 45 days or longer), and be linked to automated failure alerts.

4. Vaults & Physical Storage

All cannabis products and related records must be kept in secure vaults compliant with DEA 21 CFR 1301.72 standards. These vaults require dual authentication (e.g., codes or biometrics), and audits of lock functionality are routinely conducted.

5. Controlled Access & “Mantraps”

Facilities employ physical barriers—locked doors or vestibules—to separate public areas from restricted zones. “Mantrap” configurations require users to pass through two successive doors, preventing tailgate entry. Additionally, facilities monitor and control loitering both inside and outside the premises.

6. Employee Supervision & Training

Dispensaries must appoint registered key employees who supervise inventory and hold security responsibilities. All staff must display credentials at all times and undergo regular security and SOP training. At least two employees, including a key employee, must be on-site during operating hours.

7. Written Security Policies & Emergency Plans

Licensees are required to establish and continuously maintain written policies covering alarm procedures, inventory tracking, inventory destruction protocols, emergency response (for theft, fire, natural disaster), and panic button usage.

Vehicle and Transport Security Measures

Ohio’s rules for cannabis transport apply to distributors moving products between licensed entities. Key requirements include:

1. Secure Transport Vehicles

Vehicles must be registered and insured in Ohio, free from branding or markings, and equipped with locked cargo compartments or containers with separate locks (key or combination).

2. Containment & Visibility

All cannabis products must remain sealed and stored in secure, non-public-facing compartments. Nothing may be visible from outside the vehicle.

3. Communication & Reporting

Drivers must maintain secure communication with their origin facility and law enforcement. They must log a physical copy of the transfer manifest for the duration of the transport, notify the sender upon delivery completion, and report incidents (accident, theft, loss) promptly—within two hours for loss or theft, or immediately for emergencies.

4. Crew Requirements

While Ohio’s transport regulations focus on vehicle security and manifests, it’s industry best practice (and common in related states) to operate with a two-person crew—ensuring one person remains with the vehicle at all times.

Conclusion

• Facility Security Layers
  • Restricted access zones for authorized staff only.
  • Commercial-grade alarms and motion detectors.
  • Continuous 24/7 video surveillance with automated failure alerts.
  • Secure vaults with dual authentication for cannabis storage.
  • Controlled access points using “mantraps” to prevent unauthorized entry.
  • On-site supervision by registered key employees with mandatory security training.
  • Comprehensive written security policies, SOPs, and emergency response plans.
• Vehicle Security Layers
  • Unmarked, insured vehicles equipped with locked compartments.
  • Products sealed and stored in secure, non-visible containers.
  • Real-time communication with dispatch and law enforcement.
  • Detailed transfer manifests carried during transport.
  • Best practice of two-person transport crews for added security.

These multi-layered measures ensure Ohio cannabis distributors maintain strict compliance with state security requirements, safeguarding both facilities and vehicles to protect products and the public.