Storage of Controlled Drugs

In surgery

• CDs must be in a locked cabinet or safe
• the safe or cabinet should be in a lockable room not normally accessible to patients
• if this isn't praticable (eg lack of space) then patients should never be unsupervised in that room
• Don't store anything else with them
• Keep the log separate, nearby but out of sight

Doctors must ensure that all CDs to which safe custody regulations apply are kept in a locked receptacle, which can only be opened by them or by a person authorised by them. In the surgery, this means a locked cabinet or safe.
We advise that the cabinet does not contain anything other than controlled drugs. The register should not be kept in the same cabinet as the drugs but nearby and out of sight. The locked cabinet should not be one that staff routinely use for other items and nor should it be identifiable as the CD cabinet. The room housing the cabinet should be lockable and should not normally be accessible to patients. Where this is not practical then patients should be supervised at all times when in the room. One designated person should take responsibility for the key/codes.

Doctor's drugs

• keep in locked bag,box or case
• keep out of sight
• don't leave in the car

CDs in the possession of a doctor must be kept in a locked bag, box or case. Legal precedent holds that one of the above containers is suitable for storing CDs but a locked car is not. The container should be kept out of sight when in a vehicle and never be left unattended. The container should be stored securely within the practice premises when not in use.

Whilst this is guidance, we would all be advised to comply with it. A doctor responsible for CDs left unattended in and then stolen from a car may face police questioning and possible prosecution under the Misuse of Drugs Act.
If you would like a further copy of the full guidance then please contact the office.

AM 2008