Secure Controlled Drug Storage Cabinets
Controlled drugs are subject to specific legal and professional requirements regarding their handling, storage and management. Healthcare organisations must ensure that medicines requiring statutory safe custody are stored in suitable facilities.
At John Preston Healthcare, we supply specialist controlled drug cabinets designed for professional healthcare use.
High-Security Controlled Drug Cabinets
Purpose-designed controlled drug cabinets may incorporate reinforced construction, specialist locking mechanisms, internal shelving and secure mounting arrangements.
Selected models may be independently tested against recognised security standards, including BS 2881. Always confirm the certification and suitability of the specific product.
Controlled Drug Cabinets for Hospitals and Pharmacies
Hospitals, pharmacies, nursing homes and other healthcare providers may require different storage capacities and configurations.
Cabinet selection should account for the medicines held, operational access arrangements, available installation space and applicable regulatory requirements.
Combination Medicine and Controlled Drug Cabinets
Combination cabinets provide general medicine storage alongside a separately secured controlled drug compartment.
These systems can be useful where healthcare providers need distinct storage arrangements within a single cabinet installation.
Selecting a Controlled Drug Cabinet
Before purchasing, consider:
- Applicable legal safe custody requirements
- Cabinet construction and recognised security standards
- Locking arrangements and key management
- Storage capacity and shelving
- Wall fixing and installation requirements
- Access procedures for authorised personnel
Always verify that the chosen cabinet and its installation meet the legal requirements applicable to your location, organisation and medicines.
Contact John Preston Healthcare for further information about available controlled drug storage solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a controlled drug cabinet?
A controlled drug cabinet is a specialist secure storage unit intended for medicines subject to additional security and safe custody requirements.
Do controlled drug cabinets have to meet specific UK regulations?
Certain controlled drugs are subject to the Misuse of Drugs (Safe Custody) Regulations 1973, as amended. Requirements vary depending on the medicine, premises and applicable exemptions.
What is BS 2881?
BS 2881 is a British Standard relating to security requirements for certain cabinets used to store medicines. Check the applicable standard and certification of the individual cabinet.
Can controlled drugs be stored in an ordinary lockable medicine cabinet?
An ordinary medicine cabinet should not be assumed suitable for medicines requiring statutory safe custody. The storage arrangements must meet the relevant requirements.
Are controlled drug cabinets available in different sizes?
Yes. Specialist cabinets are available in various sizes and internal configurations, depending on the manufacturer and model.