Gunnebo Canada, in collaboration with Hamilton Security, has successfully deployed a substantial vault solution for a prominent third-party logistics company operating within Canada's pharmaceutical industry.
This initiative supports a novel method for the secure storage of controlled substances, keeping in line with Health Canada's updated requirements.
Regulatory compliance and efficient use of space
This vault project is distinguished as the first of its kind in Canada, complying with the enhanced Health Canada standards. It permits the storage of narcotics across multiple licenses within a single facility.
The upgrade sought to optimize existing space by replacing various smaller vaults with a larger, fully compliant structure. In addition to regulatory adherence, the development aims to enhance operational efficiency in managing a mix of over-the-counter and stringently controlled pharmaceutical products.
Comprehensive approach by Gunnebo Canada
The solution also integrated a commercial-grade intrusion alarm system and monitoring capabilities
Tasked with delivering the entire project, Gunnebo Canada managed the decommissioning and removal of old vaults. Their remit extended to the design, manufacture, and installation of a new Class 2 vault and its surrounding security cage. The solution also integrated a commercial-grade intrusion alarm system and monitoring capabilities.
"The real challenge was bringing together multiple complex elements into a single, compliant solution without disrupting ongoing operations," stated Navin Chadha, Senior Distribution Manager at Accuristix. "We needed a partner who understood both the regulatory landscape and the practical realities of our environment. Having a single point of contact who could manage design, installation and coordination made a significant difference to how smoothly the project progressed."
Customised and compliant construction
The centrepiece of the installation is a custom-crafted vault built with Class 2 panels to align with Health Canada guidelines. The vault is substantial, measuring approximately 27 feet in height, 39 feet in width, and 66 feet in depth, incorporating 232 panels and weighing over 750,000 pounds.
To facilitate efficient logistics, the vault includes a customised door, based on a Class M design, featuring a one-inch steel plate facade, ensuring a clear passage. The structure is enclosed within a large-scale security cage, embodying the layered security strategy necessary for storing controlled substances.
Careful coordination and execution
Completion of the installation happened over three months, involving meticulous planning, coordination, and regular site visits to fulfil expectations at every phase. This finalized solution ensures compliance with long-term operational demands, such as capacity, accessibility and scalability.
Blair Cleveland, Regional Account Executive at Gunnebo Canada, commented: "This project reflects the level of coordination and technical understanding required when regulatory requirements change and facilities need to adapt. It was about delivering a solution that works day to day, while meeting a very specific and demanding brief. This project sets a clear reference point for how large-scale, compliant narcotics storage can be delivered under the updated requirements, from design through to operation."
