5 Top Security Considerations for the Legal Cannabis Industry

The legal cannabis industry is entering a new and complicated marketplace. Among the numerous considerations for these businesses, is the question of security. As a predominantly cash business, there is a significant risk of burglary, robbery, etc. The product being sold is also at risk for similar forms of theft. So with so much to worry about, how do one begin to prepare? What type of security considerations and methods should the cannabis industry be implementing in their storefronts?

1. Using Security Guards

Once a criminal or group of criminals has gained entry to the store, locks, cameras, etc. are not going to offer much security. The growing trend of robberies among the cannabis industry has revitalized the necessity for active security precautions, such as security guards. Trained security guards are invaluable not only with assisting during a robbery, but also lowering the vulnerability to this type of threat.

Security guards can intervene before situations escalate, spotting potential criminals before they make their move. But security guards can also deter the criminal element simply by being there. Better security makes a business less appealing to thieves.

2. Securing Windows & Glass

In the case of burglary, smash and grab attacks are most common. These attacks use no skill, and only require the criminal to use something stronger than glass to enter the storefront. The most common solution that most businesses install metal bars of metal security screens on the windows.

In order to keep from harming the aesthetic of the store, clear security film can be used to protect these vulnerable pieces of glass. Security film varies in quality but it can provide anywhere from anti-scratch to shatter resistance. The strongest of which will keep the glass from shattering even after the pane has been shot with a bullet.

3. Proper Camera Usage

Make sure that cameras are protected against vandalism, and that the footage is stored securely. Cameras should be pointed at the entrances to look at customers as they enter and exit the establishment. It is also good to film the cash register to reduce employee theft.

Getting back the stolen property almost impossible, due to the nature of both cash and the product being stolen, but that does not mean that documentation is useless. Video footage can be used to prosecute criminals and to find the weak points that exist in a building’s security.

4. Getting The Most Out Of Your Safe

Because of the cash nature of the cannabis industry, most stores will invest in a safe for temporary and/or long-term storage. To protect their valuables, the company must invest in a high-end safe. Be prepared to spend 10% of the value of the contents stored in the safe.

The main threat will be theft of the safe itself, so it must be bolted down to the grown securely. If the safe cannot be stolen, criminals will try to cut or pry it open. Protection from these attacks requires strong metal, and even ceramic inserts (for angle grinder protection). Also be sure to limit the number of people with the combination, and even limit the number of people who know the location of the safe itself.

5. High Security Locks

Locks are the most foundational aspect of a building’s security, but they are also one of the most commonly neglected safety measures. With an investment in higher quality locks, a store is protected against both violent and surreptitious entry. High-security locks are also less likely to break due to usage.

A broken or damaged lock creates major security risks. These malfunctioning products are less likely to be used and more likely to work ineffectively. Consult with a commercial locksmith to find the type of lock that will work best for your particular set up. Always have locks professionally installed in commercial settings, as improper installation will have even negative ramifications.

Conclusion

These top considerations should be the starting point for security. Of course, security is about layers, and it will be more effective to use these methods together. The more seriously security is taken, the safer the business will be. Don’t leave your legal cannabis business in unnecessary danger. An investment in security is an investment in the future of the company.