Pharmacy Safety Initiative

The safety and security of pharmacy teams and patients is a priority for the College, and we are aware of the impact pharmacy robberies can have on Ontarians.

Pharmacy robberies can put people’s physical and mental health at risk, and stolen prescription medications can contribute to the escalating opioid crisis. That’s why the College is collaborating with law enforcement stakeholders such as the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP) and pharmacy stakeholders to identify and implement practical crime prevention strategies through a Pharmacy Safety Initiative.

Time-Delayed Safes

Recognizing the rise in reports of pharmacy robberies across Ontario, the College’s Board of Directors discussed the use of mandatory time-delayed safes in all community pharmacies at its December 12 meeting.

As the College continues to work on the details of a time-delayed safes mandate for community pharmacies leading up to the March 2023 Board meeting, we are sharing further information and FAQs (see below) to support registrants and stakeholders in their plans to implement time-delayed safes in their pharmacies.

The province-wide use of time-delayed safes has proven to be an effective robbery deterrent in other jurisdictions such as British Columbia and Alberta and is a measure that is supported by the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police, local police departments, the Ontario Pharmacists Association, and various corporate and independent pharmacy stakeholders. Saskatchewan is also set to move forward with a similar requirement.

Updates will continue to be shared on this page.

Resources for Pharmacy Professionals


Updated: February 1, 2023

jump to Jump To:

Print Page