c. The pharmacy structure (walls, floor, and ceiling) will have the minimum
essential openings (doors, vents, ducts, issue counter or windows, and other openings).
The pharmacy will have steel mesh or steel bars permanently affixed on all first floor
windows providing access to the exterior and on windows opening onto balconies,
porches, or roofs. Doors will be constructed of at least solid wood 1 3/4 inches thick
with security-type hinges or hinge pins spot-welded to prevent removal. Dispensing
windows will be secured with steel mesh, steel bars, or the equivalent during
non-operating hours. In new constructions, walls will extend from the pharmacy floor to
the underside of the structural slab above. For existing facilities, provisions must be
made to prevent access into the pharmacy through the ceiling.
2-6.
STORAGE OF NOTE R ITEMS
Items identified as Note R will be stored in an approved safe or vault secured
with a Class 6 vault door and will be provided controlled access area protection.
2-7.
STORAGE OF NOTE Q ITEMS
Items identified as Note Q may be stored in an approved safe. As a minimum,
Note Q items will be stored in a locked metal container if stored in a facility conforming
to the minimum requirements in paragraph 2-5b, or in locked cells of automatic counting
machines.
2-8.
PHYSICAL SECURITY MEASURES AND CONTROL PROCEDURES
The following are minimum standards and controls considered necessary to
ensure that positive security is provided for pharmacies:
a. All pharmacy storage areas will be designated as controlled access areas.
b. A pharmacy should have a limited access area. A limited access area is a
place limited to staff members involved in patient care or medically related logistical
operations, and that is not open or readily accessible to others. When operationally
feasible, containers of Note R and Note Q items will be positioned where their locations
are not visible to the public during operating hours.
c. Within reasonable limits, containers will be locked when access is not
required for operational use. Lock and key control, security procedures prescribed in
paragraph 2-9 are applicable and will be followed in pharmacy operations.
MD0812
2-6