Premises security
Opening and closing, keys, the alarm, physical security, and changes to the premises.
Version 2 · approved 23 Sept 2026 by Sam Nguyen
Opening and closing
Because no one may be inside while the pharmacy is closed unless a pharmacist is present, a pharmacist opens and closes. No one else enters while it is closed unless a pharmacist is present.
Legal requirement Pharmacy Regulation Act s 31
Closing checklist
On closing, the pharmacist checks that doors and windows are locked, the S8 safe is locked, and the alarm is set.
Pharmacy's own choice Pharmacy Regulation Act s 31
Keys, codes and swipe cards
Keys and other entry devices are held only by registered pharmacists the licensee has authorised.
Legal requirement Schedule cl 3
Tracking keys and swipe cards
We keep a key register — the VPA recommends one — that records every key and card and who holds it. Where it's kept: not yet recorded. Swipe-card access, and any override keys, should be restricted to pharmacists. Restricted keying — keys that cannot be copied at a hardware store — is highly recommended, and used where possible.
Regulator guidance VPA Guidelines G2.3.1
A lost key
Lost keys are reported at once and locks changed if needed.
Pharmacy's own choice VPA Guidelines G2.3.1
The alarm
The pharmacy has a working intruder alarm monitored 24 hours a day by an appropriately graded monitoring centre, or an on-site security service the VPA has approved. It covers the perimeter and every area where medicines are kept: the dispensary, the S8 safe, the professional service area, storerooms and any DAA packing room. The VPA expects the monitoring company to hold a security firm licence and be graded 1, 2 or 3 under AS 2201.2:2022. A silent duress alarm is recommended. Monitored by Sentinel Security Monitoring — 1300 554 118.
Legal requirement VPA Standard 2.3.3 · VPA Guidelines G2.3.3 · VPA self-audit 2.3.3
Doors, windows and ceilings
Doors, windows, skylights, walls and ceilings are substantially built and secured, with adequate perimeter security. The VPA's expected measures are: - front doors have substantial locks; perimeter doors to secluded or non-public areas are solid core reinforced with heavy-gauge metal sheeting or a security grille, or have roller shutters - perimeter windows to secluded or non-public areas have bars or security grilles; skylights that open have bars, grilles or substantial locks; other opening windows have substantial locks - the ceiling or roof space is protected against entry - a dispensary door that can't always be watched closes itself and opens from outside only with a key, code or card.
Legal requirement VPA Standards 2.3.1–2.3.2 · VPA Guidelines G2.3.1–G2.3.2 · VPA self-audit 2.3.1–2.3.2
Reporting a fault
Any damage or fault is reported to the licensee and fixed promptly.
Pharmacy's own choice VPA Standards 2.3.1–2.3.2
Checking security works
Locks and physical security should be checked periodically, and the alarm and other electronic devices tested to confirm they work.
Regulator guidance VPA Guidelines G2.3.1
Changes to the premises
The VPA must approve any significant alteration before work starts. That includes changes to the perimeter or its security, public access, the dispensary or access to it, a compounding or DAA room, or counselling areas. If unsure whether a change is significant, ask the VPA first.
Legal requirement VPA Standard 2.2.1 · VPA Guidelines G2.2.1
Checks that go with this policy
- Alarm and security check — Quarterly
- Key register review — Every 6 months
Earlier versions kept for the record: v1.
PharmPolicy supports compliance. It is not legal advice, and it does not replace the licensee's own judgement or obligations under the Pharmacy Regulation Act 2010 and other laws.