Category: Business Security and Safety

Cannabis Facility Security Requirements for New Jersey


By: Colene King


On February 22, 2021, New Jersey became the 14th state in the nation to legalize the recreational use of marijuana. After almost a full year, they have started accepting applications for cultivators, manufacturers, and testing labs. Within the first 4 hours of the website opening, nearly 500 individuals had applied. Applications for dispensaries won’t open up until March 15th. (Davis, 2021) Though there is still a little way to go before the first legal adult use sale, New Jersey is headed in the right direction.  Cultivators, manufacturers, and testing labs will start them off with building a supply for the retailers to sell.


When trying to obtain approval for licensure, a quality physical security plan will include specific details about all things required in the state of New Jersey. Some of these requirements will include: modular cannabis vaults, high security safes with TL15 or TL30 ratings, DEA approved cages for processing facilities, security camera systems, and cash management safes (trust us, you don’t want to hand count all of that cash).



 

Full suite of solutions from cameras to turnkey packages that can protect people, assets and speed loss prevention.

  • Protect product in-transit
  • IP Cameras Recorders
  • Remote Viewing on Smartphones
  • Access Control & License Plate Recognition

Four wall DEA secure drug cage for Schedule III, IV & V storage areas. Designed & built to DEA physical security requirements, these cages can be configured for your facility and customized to a variety of sizes and heights. Locking doors, self-closers, and access control locks tailored to your existing security systems are all possible.


The New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission establishes and enforces the rules and regulations governing the licensing, cultivation, testing, selling, and purchasing of cannabis in the state.


Here is a summary of the security requirements for an adult use cannabis operation:

Each cannabis business shall provide effective controls and procedures to guard against unauthorized access to the premises or the business’s electronic systems, theft, and diversion of cannabis. Such controls may include, but are not limited to, systems to protect against electronic records tampering


Security Alarm System

  • Install and maintain in good working order to provide suitable protection against theft and diversion.
    • Immediate automatic or electronic notification system
      • Notifies cannabis business personnel or police of an unauthorized breach or failure of alarm system
    • Backup system that activates immediately when there is a loss of power.
      • Notifies personnel and authorities of power loss
    • Implement security measures that deter and prevent unauthorized access to areas containing cannabis.
    • Implement security measures that protect premises, consumers, and personnel
    • Establish a protocol for testing and maintenance of the security alarm system.
      • Conduct inspections and tests of the system at minimum every 30 days
      • Promptly implement all necessary repairs to ensure proper operation
    • In the event of a system failure due to power loss expected to last longer than 8 hours:
      • Notify the Commission
      • Provide alternate security measures or close operation until fully restored
    • Outside access to premises kept at a minimum and it is well controlled
    • Limit entry into areas where cannabis is held to authorized personnel
    • Equip interior and exterior premises with panic buttons

Video Surveillance System

  • Equip interior and exterior premises with electronic monitoring, and video cameras
    • A video surveillance system shall be installed and operated to clearly monitor all critical control activities of the cannabis business and shall be in working order and operating at all times.
      • The Commission must be provided access to remote viewing at all times
      • The system must be approved by the Commission prior to license issuance
    • Original tapes and digital pictures must be retained for at least 30 days
    • Outside area of the premises must be well-lit
      • Exterior lighting must be sufficient enough to deter criminal activity
      • Exterior lighting must be sufficient enough to facilitate surveillance
      • Reasonable effort made to not disturb surrounding businesses or neighbors
    • All entrances and exits well-lit to allow proper video surveillance
      • Include motion control sensors to protect cultivation light-dark cycles as needed
  • Provide law enforcement and neighbors within 100 feet of the cannabis business with the name and phone number of a staff member to notify during and after operating hours to whom they can report problems with the establishment.
  • The security alarm system and video surveillance system shall be continuously monitored, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
    • May be monitored off-site

Storage

  • All cannabis items shall be stored in an enclosed indoor, locked area. Access to such area is limited to an owner, principal, employee, or volunteer of a license holder or staff members of a license holder’s management services contractor that possesses a Cannabis Business Identification Card when acting in their official capacity.

Secure Transport

  • A cannabis business shall ensure each delivery vehicle is equipped with:
    • A secure lockbox or secure cargo area, used for the sanitary and secure transport of cannabis
    • A GPS device for identifying the geographic location of the delivery vehicle
    • Functioning heating and air conditioning systems appropriate for maintain correct temperatures for storage of cannabis and cannabis products
    • Insure all vehicles in the amount of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence or accident
    • Vehicle has no markings indicating that the vehicle is used to transport cannabis
    • Vehicle’s make, model, color, vehicle identification number, license plate number, and vehicle registration available to the Commission upon request
    • Staff each delivery vehicle with at least one cannabis business staff member
      • Shall not leave cannabis items in an unattended delivery vehicle unless the vehicle is locked and equipped with an active vehicle alarm system.
      • Staff member has access to a secure form of communication with the cannabis business
      • Staff member possess their Cannabis Business Identification Card at all times
      • Before transport, staff member shall create a physical or electronic copy of the transport request
      • Only Cannabis Business Identification Card holders shall be allowed in a delivery vehicle
    • All transport of cannabis must be conducted by a person. No drones
    • Transports must be completed in a timely and efficient manor
    • Maintain a written or electronic record of each transport of cannabis. Must include:
      • Date and time of transport beginning and ending
      • Name, cannabis business ID card number, and signature of staff transporting
      • Weight of cannabis and cannabis items being transported
      • The batch number of the usable cannabis or the lot number of the cannabis product, the name of the strain/cultivar, and the form of the cannabis product
      • Signature of receiving staff member attesting to receipt of the goods
    • Report any vehicle accidents, diversions, losses, or other reportable events that occur during transport to the Commission

For the full list of rules and regulations; please follow this link: https://www.nj.gov/cannabis/documents/rules/NJAC%201730%20Personal%20Use%20Cannabis.pdf


Though New Jersey’s regulations don’t specify that a vault is required for storage. We believe it is something that any cannabis operation should strongly consider. Because there is such a huge risk storing a high valued product as well as large sums of cash on the premises, these operations can often become targets for smash-and-grabs.  Businesses are able to successfully protect product and cash due to the installation of vaults & vault doors.



Class 5-V vault doors protect contents against unauthorized entry, covert entry, and forced entry.



The adult use marijuana market in New Jersey is projected to reach $1.6 billion by 2025, the second largest market on the east coast, following New York. (Dehnam, 2022) Originally the state had set a deadline of February 22nd to begin sales, but it doesn’t look like this will happen. They may be a little behind schedule, but things are definitely moving in the right direction.


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://www.nj.gov/cannabis/documents/rules/NJAC%201730%20Personal%20Use%20Cannabis.pdf

https://www.nj.gov/cannabis/businesses/personal-use/

https://mgretailer.com/business/finance-acquisitions/cannabis-revenue-forecast-for-2025-jumps-by-20-billion/

Cannabis Facility Security Requirements for New York

By: Colene King


After several years of back and forth, it has finally become a reality for New York: on March 31, 2021, the Empire State became the 15th state in the nation to legalize the adult use of marijuana. The state will now begin the process of building the cannabis market.


New York has had a slow start with the roll out of the new market, but they are hopeful the new governor will get the process back on track. The Cannabis Control Board finally has its members in place and will now begin issuing the regulations that will control the licensing process. Recently, the head of New York’s cannabis control board said she does not anticipate any licenses being issued until the spring of 2023 at the earliest. (Branfalt, 2021)

 

Though the security requirements are yet to be determined, we have a good idea of what to expect. Medical use of marijuana became legal for New York in 2014. Currently, New York’s security requirements for medical manufacturing and dispensing facilities are similar to what you would find elsewhere. 


When seeking approval for licensure, any quality physical security plan will include specific details about each individual component the State of New York will ultimately require.  Examples include, modular cannabis vaults, high security safes with TL15 or TL30 ratings, DEA approved cages for processing facilities, security camera systems and cash management safes (trust us, you don’t want to hand count all of that cash).

 


ArmorStor™ Modular Vaults & Doors
ArmorStor™ secure and reinforced rooms can be installed in existing facilities or scaled to full size in new construction. The modular panels are built up to the equivalent of 24” thick poured concrete vaults with 4 layers of rebar at a fraction of the weight and installation costs.

 

Summit Series SM1 Bill Validating Safes
With immediate view of cash activities across single or multiple locations, the ability to maximize cash flow and reduce cash shrinkage is greatly enhanced. The compact size allows the SM1 to be placed in locations where space is at a premium and still provide enough capacity to minimize the frequency of cash pickups.

 

 

Below is an outline of the known security requirements for the State of New York Medical Use Regulations :

 

 

  1. Alarms and motion detectors
    • Perimeter alarm
    • Duress Alarm – silent security alarm system signal
    • Panic Alarm – audible security alarm system signal requiring law enforcement response
    • Hold up alarm – a silent security alarm system signaling a robbery in progress
    • Motion detectors
    • Back up alarm system to detect entry when no employees are present at facility
    • Failure notification system notifying of any failures within 5 minutes
    • Automatic voice dialer or digital dialer that, when activated, sends a prerecorded message to law enforcement, public safety, or emergency services, requesting dispatch
  2. Video Surveillance
    • All areas containing marijuana, all entry and exit points, all safes and vaults, and all areas where marijuana sales take place
    • Cameras are able to capture clear and certain identification of any person entering or exiting the facility
    • 24 hour recording for all video cameras and must be retained for at least 90 days
    • Recordings available for immediate viewing at any time
    • The ability to produce a clear still photo at a minimum of 9600 dpi from any camera
    • Accurate date and time stamp on all recordings
    • Ability to remain operational through a power outage
    • Video recordings are able to be exported to an industry standard image format
    • Surveillance rooms must not be used for any other purpose
    • Keep a current list of authorized employees who have access to surveillance room
  3. Exterior of premises must be kept illuminated
    • Securely locked at all times, protected from unauthorized entry
  4. Visitor log kept of all persons that access any secured areas
    • Must include name, date, time, and purpose of the visit
    • Log must be available to the department at all times upon request
  5. Security system and equipment must be kept in a secure location.
    • System must be tested twice a year, retaining results for a minimum of 5 years
  6. Storage
    • Safes, vaults, or other approved equipment must be securely locked at all times
    • Keys, combination numbers, passwords, etc. only accessible to authorized individuals
    • Marijuana stored in a secure area at all times, accessible only to authorized employees.
  7. Transportation
    • Before transporting, a shipping manifest must be completed and transmitted to receiving destination 2 days prior to transport
      • Copy of manifest kept in vehicle during transport
      • Manifests must be retained for 5 years
    • Marijuana and products transported in a locked storage compartment not visible from outside the vehicle
    • No unnecessary stops taken along the way
    • Delivery times are randomized
    • Minimum of two employees staffing the transport vehicle, with one of them remaining in vehicle at all times while the vehicle contains marijuana.

 


There are high hopes for the marijuana market in New York. Not only is it believed to have a potential to create $350 million in annual tax revenue, but also bring along 30,000-60,000 new jobs for New Yorkers. (Bort, 2021) There is still much work to be done before the New York market is operational, but once it does, it is sure to be profitable for all cannabis licensees and other stakeholders.


The security experts here at KL Security are excited to begin the new year at CannaCon in New York City January 7th-8th at the Javits Center in downtown Manhattan.  If you’re interested in opening a cannabis facility in New York and becoming part of what is projected to be a very lucrative market, now is the perfect time to start doing research and formulating a physical security plan.  Allow us to be the experts you rely on for your security needs, so you can focus on your overall business plan.  Please take a moment to stop by booth 445 at CannaCon and start a conversation with us about your cannabis facility plans.



Sources:


https://regs.health.ny.gov/content/section-100413-security-requirements-manufacturing-and-dispensing-facilities

https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-news/new-york-weed-marijuana-legalization-1148949/

https://www.ganjapreneur.com/new-york-will-not-issue-adult-use-licenses-until-2023/

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

Securing Your Home Office


By Colene King

In the wake of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, remote operations have become common practice. Organizations embraced remote operations as a way to maintain status quo while simultaneously ‘flattening the curve’. In fact, many companies have realized that getting their employees out of the brick-and-mortar office proves to be just as productive, if not more.


In 2018, only 3.6% of the US workforce was working from home. Recent telecommuting data projects that 25-30% of the workforce will be working from home at least several days a week by the end of 2021 (GlobalWorkplaceAnalytics.com, n.d.).


Many employers have gone so far as to make remote employment a permanent option. This allows employers to expand their candidate pools and acquire talent from other locations with different backgrounds. Candidates now see the opportunity to work from home as an added bonus.


Prior to the global pandemic, companies had several misconceptions surrounding telecommuters. Organizations were worried they would see a decrease in productivity, as well as a concern for being able to keep security a priority. These misconceptions were proven to be inconsequential as our workforce adapted.


Previously held beliefs of remote workers being less productive than on-site employees have been disproven. The National Bureau of Economic Research (nber.org) discovered that employees working from home are 13% more productive than those working from an office. Additionally, employees working from home miss less days, accomplish more, and feel more productive than in a traditional work environment.


Though working from home is convenient (and more productive), it does present new security challenges. It is imperative to maintain security and confidentiality. While it’s easy to slip into a comfortable routine while working from home, it is important to follow best practices for keeping your home office secure.


Even though we live in a digital age, there will always be a need to store hard copies. It is important that physical documents are stored and disposed of
properly. Whether it be an ArmorStor™ high security rated file cabinet or a Dahle paper shredder, KL security has the best options for you.

ArmorStor™ High Security Filing Cabinets When compliance requirements dictate security, the ArmorStor™ file cabinet is the choice of healthcare, business and enterprises offices worldwide.


Dahle has just released a new line of home and small office shredders that can be purchased now through KL Security. The personal shredders are the perfect size for any home office, with a few different affordable options to best suit your needs.


The Dahle PaperSAFE® PS 100 Deskside Shredder is oil-free, hassle-free, and easy to maintain. It’s ideal for destroying financial statements, tax information, or any other confidential documents that should not be seen by others.

In regards to digital records, any great home office contains an external hard drive. KL Security also offers hard drives that are fireproof as well as water proof. Properly safeguarding your home office will also offer additional peace of mind to you and your employers.



The Solo G3, 3TB Fireproof / Waterproof External Hard Drive is not only fireproof and water proof, but can also come with a data recovery service. 1, 3, and 5 year plans available. For any loss, no matter the reason.


Many benefits accompany telecommuting: improved employee mental health, a better work life balance, lower turnover, and an overall increase in productivity. With all these benefits, it’s no wonder several companies are giving their employees the option to work in the comfort of their own home.


Let KL Security help get your home office set up today!

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


Sources

  1. https://globalworkplaceanalytics.com/telecommuting-statistics

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.

R2: Responsible Recycling

R2 is the short form expression for Responsible Recycling Standards for Electronic Recyclers. This is one of two standards; the other being e-Stewards-Standard for Responsible Recycling and Reuse of Electronic Equipment. However, R2 is the world’s most utilized standard for the disposal and manufacture for used electronics.


The R2 practices were released in 2008 through development cooperation from members within the EPA, state agencies, electronics recyclers, refurbishers, trade associations, customers, other non-government organizations. A few years later in 2011, the Interagency Task Force on Electronics Stewardship developed the National Strategy for Electronics Stewardship. The NSES outlines recommendations for safer design and disposal of electronic devices. The Task Force states that the United States government should lead by example, and this strategy outlines the best practices to be adopted by government agencies.

So…who does this apply to and what is an electronic recycler?

The EPA is encouraging all electronics recyclers (companies that manufacture and sell refurbished electronics or utilize components from used electronics) to become certified (aka r2 certification requirements) by demonstrating to an accredited independent third-party auditor that they meet specific standards to safely recycle and manage electronics. Used electronics should only be considered ‘waste’ if all other options have been evaluated and eliminated.

The EPA is encouraging all electronics recyclers (companies that manufacture and sell refurbished electronics or utilize components from used electronics) to become certified (aka r2 certification requirements) by demonstrating to an accredited independent third-party auditor that they meet specific standards to safely recycle and manage electronics. Used electronics should only be considered ‘waste’ if all other options have been evaluated and eliminated.


The American National Standards Institute National Accreditation Board accredits bodies in the United States. There are currently only six organizations in the country that have received this accreditation. Given our country’s reliance on electronics, it’s safe to assume that the amount of refurbished electronic manufacturers will only increase and with it – the number of accredited organizations.

How does one become R2 certified and what is V3?

The first step is to reach out to an accredited standards development organization. We found a recommended 501(c)(3) organization using the EPA’s website. This organization, SERI, has the sole mission of environmental protection through the safe disposal and recycling of electronic products.


There are various resources available on SERI’s website. You can download the latest version of R2 documents HERE.


The entire process takes anywhere from 8 to 12 months, and organizations are free to complete the education independently or may reach out for a training consultant. Once again, all resources are located on the SERI website.


After completing the education, the organizational standards of procedure may need to be modified. This will require clear documentation of the prior procedures and new and improved processes. Next, the organization must implement these standards. Detailed documentation is key to earning accreditation. Furthermore, most companies will hire a consultant to assist within the implementation phase. You can find a list of consultants here.

Changes have been made, processes have been modified, and every step has been documented. What’s next? Now, you must perform an internal audit.


The last and final step is a certification audit. There are two stages to this audit and it spans one to two months. You can find an approved list of certification companies here. Prior to the initializing of stage two of the audit, you will complete a license application and pay a fee. After passing the certification audit and receiving an R2 certificate, a company is subject to mandatory annual audits and fees to maintain R2 status.


This accreditation is voluntary and encouraged. The government has been instructed to follow guidelines to be a good example to businesses and citizens. For this reason, if there is an option to do business with an accredited organization, a government agency will select this business over others. This offers the U.S. Government to help influence national standards through commerce.


Why would an organization want to use R2 standards? For one, they help to reinforce and advance best management practices relating to OSHA and risk management. These standards add additional value to an organization’s SOPs through assessing environmental and security practices. R2 helps trace and prevent hazardous waste from entering and polluting the environment.


These guidelines were issued in 2011. However, many companies are voluntarily adopting these best practices and becoming certified to quickly make a transition when, in all likelihood, these practices will become mandatory. At the very least, certification will be required for government vendors. Certification is not required for government vendors currently, but government agencies have been instructed to follow these measures whenever possible.


If you have been asked to become compliant with the R2 standards or need to find out pricing to budget for and r2 certified recycler, we’re here to help.

K.L. Security has various options for secure storage of digital and hardcopy documents. We also offer high-quality shredders for the safe destruction of confidential materials. With experience across various industries, we’re ready to help with all of your organization’s security needs.

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

https://www.epa.gov/smm-electronics/certified-electronics-recyclers

https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2016-02/documents/u_s_epa_fact_sheet_implementation_study_1.pdf

https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2015-09/documents/national_strategy_for_electronic_stewardship_0.pdf

R2

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.


Written by: Shelley Swearingen with input from KL Security Experts

SmartSafes & Cash in Transit Services (CIT)

Since the dawn of currency as a medium of exchange, theft has been an issue. Obviously, this issue is a key security concern for all retailers. The use of smart safes and cash in transit (CIT) services can help alleviate some of the anxiety associated with the handling of cash.

For example, the Fireking Summit Series line of deposit smart safes validate notes as they are inserted, immediately identifying potential counterfeits.  The Smart Safe automatically counts the currency and stores until collection – an added bonus for loss protection as totals can be tabulated instantly.

Smart Safes significantly reduce the chance of cash discrepancies while simultaneously reducing time and costs as a result of a simplified and efficient cash-handling process.  Easy-to-use configuration and a simple installation process allow you to introduce a secure smart safe solution to any business, large or small, with zero down time.  Near real-time web-based monitoring of cash levels via the Summit Control View  software offers immediate detailed reports, accessible from any PC or mobile device.  Manage employee access and monitor trends over time to better operate and understand your overall cash flow.

For additional security, we are partnered with CIT logistics providers (like Cash Connect) with the ability to provide provisional credit to your choice of financial institution(s), as well as armored car pickup throughout the Country.  Provisional credit is attained through automatic daily ACH transfer, and is bank-agnostic, allowing you to work with your existing banking partner. CIT logistics are fully managed with zero customer involvement. Armored vehicles arrive on a weekly or bi-weekly schedule determined by your cash volume to collect the cash that has already been deposited into your account through the ACH transfer.  Additional services such as change orders can be negotiated and handled through the same logistics partners as well.


Using Cash in Transit Services eliminates risk and exposure to yourself, staff, customers, and general public. It saves time and allows staff to concentrate on core business.


Let us help you reduce opportunities for theft, robbery, and/or diversion.  Call us today to start the conversation!

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.

Storage of Monetary Funds: Changes and Updates


The storage requirements of secured monetary funds has been updated and revised in 2018 by the U.S. Department of Defense. These updates and revisions are summarized below and can be found in Department of Defense 7000.14-R Financial Management Regulation Volume 5, Chapter 3. The DoD administrative revisions—hyperlink format and updated policy memo—are not noted below.


In DoD 7000.14-R, a subparagraph has been amended to provide a little more clarification on determining cash requirements than in the previous version. Specifically including “managing foreign government contributions (burdensharing funds)” as a type of disbursement.


In addition to this revision, there have been two additions to DoD 7000.14-R. The first and most significant addition is a section on the establishment of the DoD’s Treasury Account Symbol (TAS) for disbursing officer (DO) cash to a cash/investment account that is outside of the U.S. Treasury. Both the Office of Management and Budget and the Treasury determined that TAS needs to be recorded for non-fiduciary, non-budgetary activities with government/federal sources or funds.


A TAS is created for each DoD component to “document the balance of DO cash held outside the Treasury.” Defense Finance and Accounting Services (DFAS) uses monthly SF 1219 data to report the DO cash to the proper Treasury Account Symbol. Below are the TASs for disbursing officer cash.


  1. 017 X 6950 disbursing officer cash: Department of Navy
  2. 021 X 6951 disbursing officer cash: Department of Army
  3. 057 X 6952 disbursing officer cash: Department of Air Force
  4. 097 X 6953 disbursing officer cash: Defense Agencies
  5. 096 X 6954 disbursing officer cash: Corps. Of Engineers (Civil)

The second addition ties in with the burdensharing revision mentioned above. An example is given at the end of the 7000.14-R for Foreign Currency Cash or Limited Depositary Account (LDA) Balance Requirements. A “Burdensharing Funds (If Applicable)” row has been added to the table.

Monetary Funds Lock and Storage Requirements

The monetary funds lock and storage requirements listed in DoD 7000.14-R remains unchanged from the previous version which are listed below.


  • Funds less than $7,500
    • Lock requirement(s): UL Std 768, Group 1R
    • Storage requirements: Vault (must be fire-resistant for two hours), Burglary resistant safe (if vault isn’t available), Class 5 GSA-approved container
      • Note: If GSA-approved container has been manufactured after 2007, it must have a FF-L-2740 or FF-L-2937 lock
  • Funds greater than $7,500 but less than $50,000
    • Lock requirement(s): UL Std 768, Group 1R
    • Storage requirements: Burglary resistant safe with UL TL-15 rating, Class 5 GSA-approved container
  • Funds greater than $50,000
    •  Lock requirement(s): UL Std 768, Group 1R
    • Storage requirements: Burglary resistant safe with UL TL-30 rating, Vault (must be fire-resistant for two hours)
X-10 Lock for GSA Approved Containers and Safes

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.

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.

Depository Drop Safes – Maintaining Business Functions in the time of COVID

By Shelley Swearingen | August 20, 2020


This year’s occurrence of a global pandemic has altered the way we live our daily lives as well as the functional procedures of businesses. Business operators are looking for ways to maintain operations while protecting employees & customers. Depository safes make it possible for items to be received with little to no contact between parties. While societally we’re conducting more transactions through digital means, there’s always going to be a need to receive physical payments and documents.


Drop and depository safes were created with the intention of securely receiving and storing payments during non-business hours. Their usage is not limited to after-hours payments, though.


These depository safes can be used for clients to drop off any documentation while eliminating person to person contact. The use of a depository safes also ensures these documents remain safe and their contents are protected. With so many businesses limiting their hours or working remotely, there’s a real necessity for secure receipt of items.


Types of Drop and after hours drop safes:


KL Security is trusted by businesses nationwide spanning various industries. We evaluate each client’s needs to identify the best solution. If you have a security concern, chances are we’ve addressed it. For pricing on secure depositories or to discuss any other security related concerns, call (866) 867-0306 or email [email protected].