Due to their potential for misuse, the DEA has strict guidelines on how to store controlled substances. However, you can’t just use any narcotic storage safe, it has to be a DEA approved safe.

At SafeandVault.com we have a variety of products to meet your requirements, but we also have the information you need to stay on the right side of the law. Here are some of your most asked questions.

 What are the different types of controlled substances?

The Controlled Substances Act (CSA) divides drugs, and other substances, into one of five categories, or schedules, according to their medical use and potential for harm. Here is a brief rundown of each:

·         Schedule I – These substances have no approved medical use, and have a very high potential for abuse. They include the likes of heroin and LSD.

·         Schedule II – Substances in this category also have a high potential for misuse as they can cause a physical or psychological dependency. These narcotic, stimulant or depressant drugs could include morphine, opium and codeine.

·         Schedule III – Although these controlled substances have the potential for abuse, the likelihood of addiction is not as great as Schedule I and II drugs. They are approved for medical use. Examples include sleeping pills, weight loss drugs, or sedatives.

·         Schedule IV – These substances have a lesser likelihood of dependency or abuse than those in Schedule III. They also have an accepted medical use and could include diazepam, barbital, and some pain killers.

·         Schedule V – Often available without a prescription, these controlled substances have very small amounts of narcotics in them. Antidiarrheal and cough suppressants are examples of Schedule V drugs.

What are the storage requirements for controlled substances?

Controlled substances that are classified as Schedule I or II need to be stored in a Class 5 narcotics storage safe. This DEA approved safe needs to weigh over 750 lbs. The TL rated safes should be securely fastened to a wall or floor and, depending on the quantities involved, it may also need to be linked to an alarm system that alerts local police. Our Class 5 safes include dual combination modes and can withstand 10 minutes of a brute force attack.

Need more protection? Take a look at our TL 30 rated safes. They are tested to the highest standards and will withstand a variety of drills, grinders, or sledge hammers for at least 30 minutes. They are also rated as fireproof for up to an hour at 1700° Fahrenheit, come with a UL rating, and also meet the requirements for a DEA approved safe.

Access to controlled substances should be limited to the smallest number of employees possible. Consider installing your safe in a permanently locked or secured room, and make sure you keep a log of who is accessing the substances and at what times. CCTV cameras are advisable, as is an integrated alarm system that is linked to local law enforcement offices.