Cannabis Facility Security Requirements for Vermont

By: Colene King


It looks like 2022 is the year Vermont may finally see the first legal sale of adult use marijuana. In 2018, the state legalized the use of marijuana for adults, but it wasn’t until 2020 that they decided to legalize the sale of it.

 

The windows to apply for operator licenses are opening up over the next several months: starting with small cultivation licenses on April 1st and ending with retail licenses opening September 1st. Existing medical marijuana dispensaries will be allowed to commence adult-use sales beginning May 1, while other retailers must wait until October. (Staff, 2022)

 

See chart for application opening dates for each type of operator:

 

All license types may apply for pre-qualification beginning on March 16th. This pre-qualification is not required for full licensure. The Cannabis Control Board is offering pre-qualification in an effort to streamline the process and to foreshadow market structure.

 

Contrary to other states, Vermont is placing a larger priority on small cannabis growers. Their hopes are to pull the underground operators out of the woodwork and integrate these illegal growers into the legal cannabis market. There are concerns that these smaller operations may not be able produce enough product to meet demands at the launch of legal sales, but the Cannabis Control Board is optimistic.

 

The Cannabis Control Board, which consists of three members, was appointed in March of 2021 with the purpose of developing regulations for Vermont’s cannabis market. The regulations regarding security measures required for each type of cannabis operation are outlined below.

 

Security Regulations for Outdoor and Mixed Cultivators:

  1. Fencing
    • Sufficient to prevent unauthorized entry
  2. Alarm system
  3. Video and photographic surveillance
    • Footage must be retained for a minimum of 30 days
    • Accurate date and time stamps on images, without obstructing images
    • Able to produce usable images in the existing lighting conditions
    • Allows for clear and certain identification of all persons or activities
    • Resolution of 1080p or great
    • Exportable and transferable to standard computing equipment
  4. Motion activated flood light
  5. Security services
    • Must be operating for no less than the three-week period preceding harvest

 

Security Regulations for Indoor and Mixed Cultivators, Manufacturers, and Wholesalers:

  1. All perimeter doors and windows must be locked
    • Only individuals with Cannabis Establishment ID card may have keys or a key equivalent
    • All perimeter doors and windows must have operational security alarms
  2. Video surveillance with continue monitoring of any space containing cannabis
    • Footage must be retained for a minimum of 30 days
    • Accurate date and time stamps on images, without obstructing images
    • Able to produce usable images in the existing lighting conditions
    • Allows for clear and certain identification of all persons or activities
    • Resolution of 1080p or great
    • Exportable and transferable to standard computing equipment

 

Security Regulations for Retailers

Retailers must meet all requirements listed above for indoor and mixed cultivators, manufacturers, and wholesalers, along with the following additional requirements:

 

  1. Alarm system
    • Standard commercial-grade alarm system
    • Installed by an expert alarm system company
  2. Video surveillance
    • Must include point-of-sales areas, entrances, exits, and any area containing cannabis
    • Video footage must be retained for at least 90 days
  3. Strict access controls to areas where Cannabis and Cannabis Product is stored or handled
  4. Employees must wear identification badges while on duty
  5. Information related to the facility security must be maintained onsite and readily accessible and make them available for inspection by the Board, if requested.

 

Though these regulations don’t specifically require anything for the storage of marijuana, we strongly encourage you to invest in a vault to protect your product as well as your cash. With sales being mostly cash based and a product that is of high value, cannabis operators become a huge target for robberies.

 

ArmorStor™ Modular Vaults & Doors

For new construction & retrofit of existing buildings. Our modular vaults offer the highest UL Security rating available at a fraction of the cost of poured concrete vaults

 

Another option to consider would be a cash management system. Whether you are concerned about cash shrinkage, inefficient cash handling or upgrading your cash-management plans, a commercial or retail cash management solution is best for you. Our smart safes offer bill validating, cash currency counting, cash management and cash recycling.

 

Smart Cash Management

Enabling retailers to gain efficiencies, reduce loss, and optimize in-store labor. All with the ability to integrate existing POS systems and video surveillance for end-to-end security.

 

Vermont’s Cannabis Control Board estimates that spending on recreational marijuana in Vermont could reach $225 million annually by 2025, which would translate to nearly $46 million in new state taxes. (Goldstein, 2021) If the Green Mountain State produces marijuana half as good as their maple syrup, Vermonters are in for a real treat.

 

Now is the opportune time to get your security plan together. Let us help you. KL Security focuses on facility security – vaults, cages, camera systems, cash management safes, high security safes, etc. 

 

Sources:

https://mjbizdaily.com/small-marijuana-cultivators-could-cause-supply-issues-in-vermont-adult-use-market/#:~:text=Vermont%20estimates%20the%20state’s%20new,in%20annual%20sales%20by%202024.&text=Recreational%20sales%20are%20expected%20to,online%20on%20or%20before%20October.

https://mjbizdaily.com/more-than-two-dozen-vermont-towns-to-allow-adult-use-marijuana-stores/

https://ccb.vermont.gov/sites/ccb/files/2021-11/Proposed%20Rule%202%20-%20Regulation%20of%20Cannabis%20Establishments.pdf

https://www.sevendaysvt.com/OffMessage/archives/2021/10/19/vermont-gears-up-for-a-225-million-marijuana-market

Cannabis Operation Security Plan

By Colene King


It’s unmistakable; the cannabis industry is on the rise and shows no signs of slowing down. Recreational use of marijuana is now legal in 18 states, plus the District of Columbia. With states across the nation continually joining in on the legalization of recreational use for adults, business is booming and now is the time to become a part of it.


At the federal level, marijuana is classified as a Schedule 1 drug in accordance with the Controlled Substance Act. On a state level, however, regulation varies. This can make it all a bit confusing. Due to the current federal rules on cannabis, responsibility falls to the states to build the regulatory framework. Each state must develop their own rules, regulations, and guidelines associated with the production, sale, and legal use. No one knows how it will pan out if (and when) marijuana becomes legal at a federal level, but without a doubt there will still be strict regulations to follow for each state.


One of the primary concerns for those operating in the cannabis space is the high volume of cash. The banking system is regulated by federal law, causing a large number of banks to steer clear of the industry.  Additionally, some credit card companies will not allow their customers to use their cards as a form of payment at cannabis pharmacies/dispensaries. This causes the operator to accumulate large sums of cash that is often stored on the premises for a certain period of time. The high value of product paired with large sums of cash make cannabis operators a prime target for diversion and theft. Robbery disrupts business, places customers & employees in danger, and costs operators exponentially. This is merely one reason, of many, as to why having a security plan in place is incredibly crucial.


When applying for licensure, the development of a well calculated security plan is required. Since the legislation varies state and state, and sometimes even by municipality, it’s important to thoroughly research the applicable rules and regulations. Regardless of the state in which the operation resides, there will be rules regarding security.





All cannabis operations must utilize seed-to-sale tracking; this applies to all forms of businesses: craft growers, commercial growers, medicinal producers, processors, secure transporters, cannabis pharmacies, marijuana dispensaries, etc. While this process is required, it is also an excellent business practice to protect profits, ensure product quality, and grow business.


A good security plan should:


  • Deter theft of product and cash
  • Prevent internal diversion
  • Be scalable – able to grow with the business
  • Protect employees/customers, product, equipment, and cash
  • Detect, delay, and deter burglaries
  • Protect against fire and flood

KL Security is here to help along the way – from the first napkin sketch all the way to implementation. We’ve worked with cannabis operators nationwide and helped grow these businesses (both big and small).


Our Total Harvest CoverageTM offers a holistic approach to integrate security and compliance through the use of Smart Safe POS systems, and video & data analytics. This approach unlocks business growth opportunities to create competitive advantages, and maintaining compliance encourages continuous growth. 


Each aspect of a security portfolio should assist in loss prevention, improvement of operations, increasing safety, and support business goals. Kl Security along with ArmorStor™ believe that compliance and business success are one in the same.





This process can be overwhelming, but have no fear, our cannabis security experts are available to help and guide you along the way.


Annual retails sales of marijuana are projected to reach $43 billion by the year 2025 (NORML, 2021), and having an advanced security system in place is crucial to protect your business and license status.


Stay tuned for regular updates on regulations and news pertaining to cannabis.


Sources:

State-By-State Policies
Analysis: Legal Cannabis Sales Projected to Reach $43 Billion By 2025

https://public.findlaw.com/cannabis-law/starting-a-cannabis-business/marijuana-business-licenses-permits-and-planning.html

Business Protections Against Fire | Cannabis Facilities

By Shelley Swearingen | September 29, 2020


Coastal Pacific states are currently battling raging wildfires. These western states are no stranger to fire, but the losses don’t always have to be catastrophic. Protecting cannabis dispensaries, pharmacies, growers, producers, and secure transporters from natural disasters is possible; it just takes planning.

Records Protection


Most states have laws requiring the digital tracking of product from seed to sale. Many states also require customer databases be kept & maintained to abide by quantity limits. This data is pertinent to stay within compliance and safeguards must be in place to protect this data. It’s also important to select servers that protect against fire AND water. A unit should be able to withstand the fire and the efforts to put out the fire.  



The ioSafe protects data from fire and water. It can withstand temperatures up to 1550°F for 30 minutes, and water submersion at 10 ft for up to 72 hours.  The internal capacity maxes out at 16TB, and it it’s compact in size: 12 inches high and weighs less than 30lbs.


Businesses, no matter how tech savvy they may be, will always need to store some hardcopies. For this reason, a traditional fire-safe file cabinet should be procured.


FireKing manufactures the best fireproof filing options available. Other brand names only offer half the fire safe protection. These cabinets are available in legal or letter size and multiple drawer options.

Chemical Storage

The cannabis industry is highly regulated. Growers & producers must abide by traditional guidelines for the safe storage of insecticides, pesticides, and other chemicals as well as cannabis specific regulations just to stay in compliance. 

Fire or other natural disasters can cause hazardous chemicals to turn deadly. If not stored properly, fire could cause ignition and explosion. The acquisition of proper storage can prevent against additional damage.

The AG400 is the best choice for the storage & safe handling of chemicals. This unit is rated to meet OSHA requirements and withstand up to 4 hours of fire.

Product Storage

Cannabis regulators are primarily concerned with safeguarding citizens against the proliferation of marijuana on the black market. For this reason, many businesses will implement security provisions that prevent surreptitious entry but may not prevent against mother nature.


There are various safes and vaults that can be manufactured to tailor to the specific needs of your business. Protect product from natural forces as well as theft.


Vault doors protect cash and product from diversion as well as natural disasters. Fallen trees could compromise the integrity of a traditional locked door thus enticing those that may wish to profit from your misfortune.  

For smaller quantities of product, a high security safe may suffice. This featured safe is manufactured with narcotic storage in mind – sure to pass compliance inspections. It’s also fire tested to 1850°.

No matter the scale or size of your operation…

KL Security can help facilitate compliance and protection. We’ve helped numerous cannabis facilities nationwide assemble license applications, maintain compliance standards, protect against diversion, and drive revenue. Our consultants are knowledgeable, experienced, and ready to assist.

Call 866-867-0306 or email [email protected]

Information has been gathered from sources deemed reliable but not guaranteed and is subject to change without notice. The information contained in this site is provided for informational purposes only.

Air Tube Systems: Security Applications in the Cannabis Industry

By: Shelley Swearingen | August 18, 2020

Pneumatic Air Tubes may not be considered ‘innovative’, but their application within an emerging market is. Pneumatic tubes have been used to transport items for well over a century, and the legal cannabis industry is in its infancy in America. Cannabis entrepreneurs are in uncharted territory as to how best safeguard their employees and protect product – all while minimizing diversion and driving revenue. Air Tubes are an easy way to achieve all of these goals.

Banks have utilized pneumatic tubes for over a hundred years, and tube systems are commonplace in today’s pharmacies, as well. Air tubes allow for the fast and safe transportation of small items like medication or currency.

By using pneumatic air tubes, dispensaries can keep the majority of their inventory safely stored in a secure room. The less stock left on the sales floor, the less the chances for theft or diversion. When inventory on the sales floor is minimized, the opportunity for diversion is also reduced. A budtender can assist a customer/patient select their preferred product, and then request the quantity from an employee working in a stock room. The item is retrieved (employees never have to leave their respective areas) and sent to the front of the house for the point of sale. This also makes inventory management and surveillance easier.

Air tube systems also provide extra safeguards within cash management. Cashiers are also able to make cash deposits quickly and safely to more secure locations (like vaults).

Out of sight, out of mind. Keeping cash and product stored elsewhere ensures the safety of employees while making it harder for would-be thieves to steal cannabis product – key components to security protocols and operational procedures to deter diversion of cash and cannabis.

KL Security utilizes the THC360 holistic approach when evaluating a facility’s needs. Brand image and company expectations are assessed to formulate the best solution for an issue. Our implementations assist in diversion, drive revenue, and maintain compliance. To see how the experts at K.L. Security can assist your cannabis dispensary/pharmacy, craft growing facility, secure transporting service, or testing facility call us at 866-867-0306 or email [email protected].

Information has been gathered from sources deemed reliable but not guaranteed and is subject to change without notice.

Arizona One Step Closer to Recreational Marijuana Market

By Shelley Swearingen | August 11, 2020



Earlier this year, Arizonans banned together in an attempt legalize marijuana. Marijuana is currently legal for medicinal use in the state, but residents would like to see access made available for all adults.


The issue was set to be voted on within the November ballot. A petition was submitted earlier this year by constituents; the initiative required 237,645 signatures and Smart and Safe Arizona (the group spearheading the initiative) acquired 420,000.


Opposition to this proposal was met by Arizonans for Health and Public Safety, a group backed by the Center for Arizona Policy (conservative group that supports ‘right-wing’ legislation). It’s safe to assume this group is also anti-cannabis legislation of any kind, but attacked the proposal on the basis that it doesn’t adequately address cannabis sales tax increases, driving under the influence, or marijuana potency. It also claimed the initiative is ‘confusing and deceptive’.  Based on these theories, the group filed a lawsuit challenging the pro-cannabis initiative.


And late last week, this suit was rejected. A Superior Court Judge ruled the provisions had be addressed sufficiently and found the initiative was not lacking. The judge found their claims to be unfounded. This was a huge win to the voters of Arizona. For now, the issue of legalizing marijuana for all adult Arizonans will be resolved in November by voters.


The recreational market is proposed to favor existing medical marijuana operators and also designate 26 new licenses specifically for social equity applicants.


Using data from the US Census Bureau and assuming the Arizona market would resemble the Illinois market, we can figure that Arizona might have had $170,322,000 in sales (so far) in 2020. That would have brought in over $27,000,000 in tax dollars for the state.*

Here at KL Security, we observe and implement a holistic approach to cannabis facility compliance and safety. We assist dispensaries, pharmacies, secure transporters, craft growers, large scale growers, and testing facilities in achieving revenue goals through protecting assets. We assist with security planning and SOPs for security protocols that prevent diversion of cash and cannabis products at all steps within a marijuana business’s lifetime: from licensing to successful operation to inspections. If you need assistance with the security portion of an application, want to learn how to make your operation safer, or are concerned about compliance – contact the consultants at KL Security at 866-867-0306 or at [email protected]


Information has been gathered from sources deemed reliable but not guaranteed and is subject to change without notice.


*9,900,000 estimated adults in Illinois and $300,000,000 in sales (YTD Jan-Aug 2020) equated to roughly $30.3 spent per adult resident.5,677,400 estimated adults in Arizona = $170,322,000

Safes and Vaults: Evaluating Security Needs

By Shelley Swearingen | May 26, 2020

Safe Vault
noun: a place or receptacle to keep articles (such as valuables) safe adjective: affording safety or security from danger, risk, or difficulty1   noun: a room or compartment for the safekeeping of valuables, or an underground storage compartment, or an arched structure of masonry usually forming a ceiling or roof 2  
     

Planning for the safety and security of a facility can seem like a daunting task. It doesn’t need to be. By taking a few steps and evaluating the needs of your business, you can easily identify what the best solutions are.

First, you must identify what will be stored. Consideration should also be given to the level of theft associated with the item. For example: cannabis, firearms, and some pharmaceutical drugs are highly sought after on the black market.

Smaller amounts of items could safely be stored in a safe while others may require a custom-built vault room. KL Security offers custom vault rooms that are manufactured in individual panels for fast and easy installation. This cuts down on construction costs and keeps your project on schedule. 

  • Where do you plan to store items?
    • On-site or off-site?
    • Who will have access to this location?
      • Does access need to be limited?
    • Where is the location of the storage room?
      • Interior of building? Or does room contain an exterior wall?

Does your facility already have standards of procedure in place for who will have access to the items? Are there time restrictions on when these items can be accessed? Do you need to develop plans and standards for procedures on access?

If the storage location is off-site, perhaps additional measures should be taken; KL Security (through a partnership with March Networks) offers state of the art surveillance cameras. If the items are going to be contained in a room with an exterior wall, perhaps the wall should be reinforced by a vault panel.

  • What are the legal security or storage requirements?
    • Are there compliance mandates for the storage of items?
      • What are the consequences for violation?

Various government departments regulate the sale, storage, handling, and disposal of certain materials. The DEA has requirements as to how certain medicines must be stored; the ATF has requirements as to how explosives must be stored; States have requirements for the storage of cannabis that vary depending on legislation.

  • What is your budget?
    • Have you weighed the cost of purchase vs. cost of non-compliance?

This is where the evaluation of regulations is so important. If your facility were to be found to be non-compliant, there could be costly fines. In addition to fines, regulating departments may also require a cessation of business operations until the changes are made to bring violations up to code. These costs will undoubtedly exceed the initial cost of investment. 

Evaluating security needs is a multifaceted process, and should not be taken lightly. The experts at KL Security are experienced and willing to help. We’re dedicated to staying educated on legislation mandates and strive to provide the best possible service. Let us assist you in finding the right solution for your facility’s needs. To start a conversation on how we can secure your facility, improve safety compliance, or review security protocols call or email us:

(866) 867 – 0306 OR [email protected]

Information has been gathered from sources deemed reliable but not guaranteed and is subject to change without notice.

  1. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/safe
  2. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vault

Illinois Conditional Adult Use Dispensing Licenses

By Shelley Swearingen – May 1, 2020

Today would have been the deadline for Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) to issue additional licenses. There are 75 Conditional Adult Use Cannabis Dispensing Licenses up for grabs. The Governor of Illinois, JB Pritzker, signed an executive order suspending the issuance of new licenses.

On March 9, 2020, the entire state of Illinois was declared a disaster area. In an effort to mitigate the spread of the virus and corresponding disease, the state of Illinois has instituted several safeguards. Social distancing is being practiced, and I would imagine all government employees with the ability to work remotely are doing so. These licenses must be reviewed by a panel, and on can safely assume the extension for issuances of licenses has been pushed back due to communication limitations and the necessity of more pressing issues.

Furthermore, the Governor authorized a variance to Illinois Administrative Code allowing Medical Cannabis Dispensaries to dispense medical cannabis outside of the limited access area. This permits dispensary agents to offer curbside and limited-contact service. In order to partake in this exception, the dispensary must have a written procedure on how to operate safely and ensure that they are only dispensing to approved patients.

Here at KL Security: we’ve assisted several of these applicants on addressing security needs, and we’re waiting on pins and needles for the announcement of license winners along with these applicants. As of now, a new date has not been determined by the State of Illinois.

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way the world does business. It may have brought to light many standards of procedures that are outdated and require attention. The experts at KL Security are dedicated to staying educated on new and innovative ways to safeguard your business. We’re here to help cannabis dispensaries, cultivators, transporters, testing facilities, pharmacies, and craft growers to develop and implement security procedures to drive revenue & stay compliant. To start a conversation on how we can improve your safety compliance while staying true to your brand, call or email us.

(866) 867 – 0306 OR [email protected]

Information has been gathered from sources deemed reliable but not guaranteed and is subject to change without notice.

https://www.idfpr.com/News/2020/Cannabis%20EO%20Dispensary%20license%20deadline.pdf

https://www.idfpr.com/Forms/COVID19/Medical%20Cannabis%20Restricted%20Area%20Dispensing%20April%202020.pdf

https://www2.illinois.gov/sites/gov/Documents/APPROVED%20-%20Coronavirus%20Disaster%20Proc%20WORD.pdf

https://www.idfpr.com/ILCannabis.asp

Businesses Nationwide Installing Sneeze Guards Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

By: Shelley Swearingen — April 6, 2020

Retailers across the country are doing their best to protect workers from contracting the coronavirus. To say the global economy has taken a hit from the coronavirus pandemic would be an understatement. Big box retailers and grocery stores are one of the few industries faring well during this time, but the high demand also brings big concerns.

These businesses are doing their best to protect their workers from falling ill, and it’s no easy task. Many have implemented shortened hours to disinfect stores between business days. Many are installing sneeze guards to add a layer of protection for workers on the ‘front lines’.

The World Health Organization (WHO) explains that the respiratory virus is most commonly spread by coughing or exhaling. This added barrier is one more way business owners can protect their employees.

People can catch COVID-19 from others who have the virus. The disease can spread from person to person through small droplets from the nose or mouth which are spread when a person with COVID-19 coughs or exhales. These droplets land on objects and surfaces around the person. Other people then catch COVID-19 by touching these objects or surfaces, then touching their eyes, nose or mouth. People can also catch COVID-19 if they breathe in droplets from a person with COVID-19 who coughs out or exhales droplets. This is why it is important to stay more than 1 meter (3 feet) away from a person who is sick.

Employee retention is always difficult for the retail sector, and even more so now. People are hesitant to willingly expose themselves to the possibility of catching the coronavirus. Holding onto these workers requires that management does everything in their power to offer protection to employees.

Many retail giants (Wal-Mart, Costco, Kroger, Albertsons, and Publix1) have already begun installing sneeze guards at all US locations. A Chicago-area Walmart recently lost two employees after succumbing to COVID-19 2. The death of these employees demands more stringent safe guards. 

These protective barriers should be in place for any business requiring face to face interaction of employees and customers, and are not relegated exclusively to grocery stores. Banks, grocery stores, pharmacies, and gas stations should also enforce the use of sneeze guards.

It could be argued that is an employer’s legal duty to acquire sneeze guards during these times. Through the Code of Federal Regulations, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration demands:

Protective equipment, including personal protective equipment for eyes, face, head, and extremities, protective clothing, respiratory devices, and protective shields and barriers, shall be provided, used, and maintained in a sanitary and reliable condition wherever it is necessary by reason of hazards of processes or environment…” 29 CFR 1910.132

KL Security offers no-installation affordable sneeze guards available for purchase NOW. The plastic barriers are both lightweight and portable and come with a removable base for easy relocation. These sneeze guards are ready to go out of the box for immediate use. To purchase these for your organization click HERE or copy & paste this address into your browser: https://www.klsecurity.com/index.php/catalogsearch/result/?q=sneeze

The experts at KL Security are still available to answer any and all questions you may have when it comes to the protection of your facility. We’re experienced in assisting business leaders in all industries to fulfill compliance mandates and ensure overall preservation of best interests. Please reach out today: TOLL FREE 1-866-867-0306 or [email protected]

Information has been gathered from sources deemed reliable but not guaranteed and is subject to change without notice.

  1. Hanbury, Mary. April 6, 2020. Sneeze guards, social distancing markers, and shopper limits: Here’s what US grocery chains are doing to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Business Insider Magazine. Retrieved from: https://www.businessinsider.com/walmart-costco-target-adapt-stores-prevent-coronavirus-infection-2020-3#wegmans-8
  2. Duffy, Clare and Meyersohn, Nathaniel. April 5, 2020. Two workers at the same Walmart store die of coronavirus. CNN Business. Retrieved from: https://www.cnn.com/2020/04/05/business/walmart-workers-coronavirus-deaths/index.html

Helpful Links:

United States Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration Regulations https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910.132

Centers for Disease Control: Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers to Plan and Respond to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/guidance-business-response.html

World Health Organization Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Pandemic https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019

Explosives Storage: Classes of Explosives & Types of Magazines…How to determine the best storage magazine for compliance

By Shelley Swearingen — March 31, 2020

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) regulates and establishes guidelines for the storage of explosive items. These rules must be followed to ensure the absence of unnecessary injury, death, or diversion from criminals.

There are three different classes of explosives:

  • High explosives
    • Detonate by blasting cap when unconfined
    • Examples: blasting caps, detonating cord, dynamite, shaped charges, boosters, flash powder, bulk salutes, etc.
  • Low explosives
    • Deflagrate (burn away with sudden flame & sharp combustion) when confined
    • Examples: black powder, display fireworks, safety fuses, igniters, igniter cords, fuse lighters, etc.
  • Blasting agents
    • Any material or mixture consisting of fuel & oxidizer: intended for blasting & cannot be detonated by No. 8 blasting cap when unconfined
    • Examples: emulsions, water gels & slurries, ammonium nitrate fuel oil (ANFO)

There are five different types of storage magazines for the safe storage of explosives:

  • Type 1:
    • For storage of all classes of explosives
    • Permanent structure
    • Bullet-, fire-, weather-, and theft-resistant
  • Type 2:
    • For storage of all classes of explosives
    • If placed indoors:
      • Fire- and theft-resistant
    • If placed outdoors:
      • Fire-, weather-, theft-, and bullet- and resistant
      • Must be affixed to position, but cannot have direct contact with the ground
      • Ventilated
  • Type 3:
    • For temporary attended storage of all classes of explosives
    • Fire-, weather-, and theft-resistant
    • Portable
  • Type 4:
    • For storage of low explosives, blasting agents, & non-mass detonating detonators
    • Fire-, weather-, and theft-resistant
  • Type 5:
    • For storage of blasting agents
    • Weather- and theft-resistant if stored outside

Inspections & Compliance

Magazines must be inspected every seven days to ensure no one has tried to enter these containers without authorization. Permanent magazines (if kept outside) must have a sufficient foundation or metal skirting to prevent access. A magazine stored indoors may not contain more than 50 pounds of explosives and cannot be stored inside a home or dwelling. To store explosives indoors of a business located near a residence, a request for variance must be submitted to the ATF and approved. The local fire safety authority should be notified of the storage of explosive materials for emergency preparedness. Furthermore, the ATF requires explosives to be stored at varying distances to transportation routes, inhabited buildings, and other explosives.

As always, we recommend a conversation with local authorities in your jurisdiction to ensure specific regulations are met and adhered to. We’re happy to facilitate and participate in conversations to ensure your requirements are met with the best and correct storage magazine.

So, what does it take to be in compliance? The mandates are complicated, and violations can be costly. This is merely a general overview of magazines and explosives storage. For additional guidance or assistance with products, please contact the experts at KL Security by phone: 866-867-0306 or email: [email protected].

Information has been gathered from sources deemed reliable but not guaranteed and is subject to change without notice.

Helpful Links:

https://www.atf.gov/explosives/explosive-storage-requirements

https://regulations.atf.gov/555-201/2019-06266#555-201

https://www.atf.gov/explosives/docs/guide/publication-explosives-magazine-construction-requirements-atf-p-540017/download

https://www.atf.gov/file/61971/download

Cannacon Trade Show Postponed

By Shelley Swearingen — March 27, 2020

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, Cannacon has been forced to reschedule the Detroit expo. This was slated to take place the first week of April and has since been moved to November.

Cannacon launched the first Cannabis business expo for the city of Detroit in 2018. This year marks the third consecutive annual event for the Detroit location. The Cannacon expo brings together professionals from all realms of the cannabis world. You can converse with experts in world-class genetics, retail displays, extraction technology, scientific trends, finance, marketing, branding, compliance, legal mandates, cultivation, etc. The list goes on and on.  

KL Security was slated to hold a booth at this event and will be present at the rescheduled date. We understand the levity of the situation as well as the necessity of the postponement. In the meantime, our goal is to continue to assist industry leaders (as well as novices) with their security needs.

We would have loved to meet you all face to face, but we will have to make do with remote communication. We are still fully operational and prepared to help your business grow. The cannabis industry continues to thrive during this unprecedented event. This shows how strong the market it is and the opportunities for continued growth.

Perhaps the biggest reason for the continued success of these entrepreneurs is their ability to shift and adapt. Marijuana business owners are open to innovation and state of the art integration practices that we have yet to see in the traditional retail market.

One such integration is the partnership of KL Security and March Networks. March Networks offers security camera systems to integrate with Point-of-Sale software. These collaborative systems are currently being merged with KL Security cash safes to ensure the lowest amount of financial diversion possible. If there’s a discrepancy within records, an auditor/manager is able to easily pull up the record and view the videotape of the transaction.

KL Security uses the Total Harvest Coverage approach for a 360° analysis of your business and potential needs. Craft growers, Secure Transporters, Cultivation facilities, Testing facilities, Processors, Dispensaries, and Pharmacies can rest assured knowing we can work together to fulfill compliance regulations and expand revenue.

If you have questions about how we can improve compliance within your facility, how to prevent diversion, or how to address security concerns, please reach out to us. We are available by phone: 1-866-867-2438 and email: [email protected].

Information has been gathered from sources deemed reliable but not guaranteed and is subject to change without notice.