By Casey Mitchell, Vector Security
Member of NCIA Facilities Design Committee
Security has become a growing concern for business owners and consultants as the cannabis industry grows. The cannabis industry faces unique security challenges from seed to sale. These include permitting and compliance issues, system design, theft and inventory losses.
These challenges are compounded by the myriad state laws and regulations which must be adhered to. If you work with a security company, they will help you navigate the regulations and ensure that your business is in compliance. They can also offer you detailed security plans to integrate with your goals.
Here are some of the benefits that an experienced security provider could offer to cannabis consultants and business owner, as well as tips on how to choose the right partner for you.
Experienced Team in State and Federal Regulations
When choosing a security company, experience in both the cannabis and security industries is important. How long has the business been around? Does the company have a dedicated team for cannabis? Are they familiar with cannabis laws and regulations? Does the company offer comprehensive support, from seed to sale. Search for a provider of security that has a cannabis team with a thorough understanding of the regulatory environment.
Support for Permit Applications and Permit Drawings
Permitting and design are two of the most difficult aspects of the cannabis business. A security expert can check your state application and verify that all regulations have been met. This will maximize your score. They should be able provide a narrative for your permit application relating to your security plan. Ask if they can design a comprehensive plan that includes the location of devices, the rough-in, power requirements, operating procedures and network requirements. Find a partner who offers these services and ask if they are provided for free or at an extra cost.
Trade Coordination
A cannabis business is a complex operation that involves many moving parts. A good security provider will coordinate with architects, builders, construction companies and power companies/utilities to streamline the deployment of the system.
Alarm Monitoring
Protecting inventory against internal and external theft, as well as environmental hazards like fire, is an essential part of security. In the event of an emergency, a rapid response and dispatch is essential. Ask if the monitoring center is U.L. listed and offers 24/7/365 alarm monitoring and redundant communication. False alarm protocols should be in place to help your business avoid expensive fines for false dispatch.
Support and Service
You can still benefit from the support of an experienced security partner, even if you are operating your business. When the vendor is a single-point of contact, scheduling service, inspections and monitoring as well as other essential needs are easier. This ensures that your facilities stay fully functional. If your security partner offers post-installation support and service, including ongoing testing and checks to ensure compliance with the authority that has jurisdiction, ask if they provide this.
If you are a cannabis consultant, or a business proprietor, then look for a security provider with experience in the industry, expertise in permitting, compliance and design, customized security solutions, reliable alarm monitoring, and cost-effective options. Cannabis businesses can reduce security risks by choosing the right security partner. They will also ensure compliance with federal and state regulations.
Casey Mitchell is the enterprise account manager of Vector Security’s cannabis solutions team. He has over 22 years of experience in designing security and communication systems for the U.S. Department of Defense as well as other highly regulated industries like cannabis.
The post Blog: What to consider when choosing a security provider first appeared on National Cannabis Industry Association.
