Pharmacy robberies continue to be a problem nationwide which not only contributes to the ongoing opioid crisis and substance abuse concerns in Canada but can also have negative impacts on pharmacy operations and the staff and patients involved. Ensuring the safety of pharmacy staff and patients is of utmost importance and as such, OPA has developed a Pharmacy Safety and Security Toolkit to support pharmacy professionals in their practices. Many pharmacies may already have policies and procedures in place, and in the event of differences, pharmacy professionals should defer to their corporate, chain and/or store policies and procedures, and are encouraged to speak to their head offices, pharmacy managers, and/or owners for further clarification as required. These resources may be used to supplement that information as applicable.
Pharmacy Safety and Security Checklist
This checklist provides suggested strategies that can be implemented to mitigate the risk of robberies and protect the pharmacy, staff, and patients. Recognizing that each pharmacy is unique, this checklist is meant to be a general guide of possible strategies to consider as applicable.
Access this document (Member only – Login required)
Reacting to a Pharmacy Robbery
This tool provides tips on how to react during and after a pharmacy robbery. It can be used to educate staff on what to do in the event that a robbery occurs. Also included is a worksheet to assist witnesses with documenting relevant information for police about the perpetrator(s).
Access this document (Member only – Login required)
Time-delay Safes in Community Pharmacies
This fact sheet provides pharmacy professionals with information regarding time-delay safe technology. It includes an overview of time-delay safes, learnings from past experiences, factors to consider, and suggested tips for implementation. Examples of time-delay safes and companies that can retrofit existing safes are also included.
Access this document (Member only – Login required)
OPA is committed to supporting its members in their practices and will continue to monitor and work alongside our colleagues at the Ontario College of Pharmacists, and other key stakeholders on initiatives to protect pharmacy professionals.
