Introduction
Running a cannabis dispensary means juggling compliance, cash handling, and customer safety. Therefore, use this monthly checklist to find gaps fast and keep your store secure and audit-ready. If you prefer, get a free quote and we’ll help.
Camera Coverage & Quality
First, confirm your basic visibility.
- Check that all cameras record and time-sync. Additionally, verify the correct date and time.
- Next, confirm coverage of entrances/exits, POS, storage, back door, and parking. For example, stand at each door and view the live feed.
- Finally, review a night clip to confirm clarity. As a result, you’ll catch failing lenses early.
Recorder Health
Meanwhile, make sure recording never stops.
- Check storage capacity and retention days. If not enough, expand storage.
- Confirm overwrite settings; otherwise, footage may delete too soon.
- Test remote viewing on manager devices. Therefore, you can respond off-site.
Access Control
Additionally, tighten who can enter sensitive areas.
- Remove former employees from keys/fobs/PINs. Afterward, document the change.
- Test door schedules and codes. If something fails, reprogram immediately.
- Lock server/network closets; in addition, post “authorized only” signs.
Alarm System
Next, verify the alarm actually alerts.
- Test every zone and the duress code. For example, trigger a supervised test with monitoring.
- Update the call list; otherwise, alerts may go to old numbers.
- Download the monthly activity log. As a result, trends are easy to spot.
Cash Handling
Because cash is a target, reduce risk with process.
- Use dual custody in the cash room. Additionally, record each entry.
- Log escorts from POS to safe and pickups. Therefore, every movement is auditable.
- Vary routes/times to avoid patterns. However, keep radios on for safety.
ID Verification Process
Also, keep access legal and consistent.
- Mystery-shop the check-in: scan + visual match. If steps are skipped, retrain immediately.
Opening & Closing Procedures
Then, lock down daily routines.
- Use two-person open/close with camera watchback. As a result, you reduce solo-worker risk.
- Walk the perimeter before opening and after closing. Additionally, check dumpsters and alleys.
- Sign and file the lock checklist. Finally, store it in a binder.
Incident Reporting
When issues occur, document them clearly.
- Require a written report for every incident. For example, include who, what, where, and video timestamp.
- Review the month’s reports and fix repeat hotspots. Therefore, problems decline over time.
Inventory Room Security
In addition, protect the highest-value areas.
- Limit access to authorized staff only. Otherwise, shrink risk increases.
- Point a camera at the counting table; keep seal logs. Consequently, audits go faster.
Lighting & Line of Sight
Visibility matters; criminals prefer darkness.
- Replace burnt bulbs at doors, parking, and dumpsters. Additionally, clean foggy lenses.
- Trim any shrubs blocking cameras or windows. As a result, sightlines improve.
Network & Updates
Security depends on updates, too.
- Update NVR/firmware and router patches. Otherwise, known exploits remain.
- Separate guest Wi-Fi from security devices. Therefore, visitors can’t reach cameras.
Training & Drills
Moreover, practice drives performance.
- Run a 10-minute robbery/duress refresher. Afterward, record attendance.
Vendor/Contractor Access
When outsiders arrive, control the flow.
- Issue temporary badges; require escorts. Additionally, verify IDs.
- Verify cameras aren’t covered during work. If they are, pause the job.
Compliance Paperwork
Finally, keep audits painless.
- File retention policy, alarm permits, guard licenses, and the incident log. In addition, store last inspection notes and fixes.
Monthly Management Review
Each month, meet for 15 minutes to review incidents and improvements. Then, set next month’s audit date now.
Next step
See how our dispensary security packages work. Meanwhile, if you want help, we’ll walk your store and prioritize fixes.