Fortifying Controlled Substances: Why Pharmaceutical Facilities Choose International Vault

Fortifying Controlled Substances: Why Pharmaceutical Facilities Choose International Vault

The Critical Need for Secure Pharmaceutical Storage

In today’s pharmaceutical supply chain, security and compliance are inseparable. For manufacturers and distributors handling controlled substances, meeting DEA §1301.72 regulations isn’t optional—it’s the foundation of your operation.

That’s why more pharmaceutical facilities are turning to International Vault, a trusted name in modular vault systems engineered to meet and exceed DEA standards. From Class I and II narcotics to lower-schedule substances, our vaults are designed to protect what matters most—your inventory, your compliance, and your reputation.

Understanding DEA Requirements for Pharmaceutical Vaults

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) outlines strict construction and operational standards for controlled-substance storage under 21 CFR 1301.72. These standards specify:

• Reinforced concrete or equivalent construction for walls, floors, and ceilings
• Vault doors with tested resistance to forced entry and lock manipulation
• 24-hour monitored alarm and surveillance systems
• Restricted, documented access controls
• Compliance with specific schedules (Schedule I & II typically require solid vaults; lower schedules may use cage systems)

Meeting these standards requires not only the right materials but also engineering expertise and regulatory insight.

How International Vault Delivers DEA-Compliant Solutions

At International Vault, we specialize in designing and manufacturing vault systems that satisfy DEA requirements while optimizing your workflow and facility layout.

1. Modular Vault Design

Our modular vault systems provide the same strength and certification as cast-in-place concrete, but with faster installation, lower cost, and greater flexibility for future expansion.
Explore our Modular Vaults →

2. Built for DEA and Health Canada Compliance

Every vault we produce meets or exceeds DEA §1301.72 and Health Canada physical-security standards. Each component—panels, doors, frames, and locking systems—is precision-engineered and tested to perform under the most demanding conditions.

3. Custom Security Levels for Different Drug Schedules

Different substances require different levels of protection:

• Schedule I & II: Solid modular vaults with DEA-rated doors and access control
• Schedule III–V: Heavy-gauge wire mesh cages with self-closing, self-locking doors

Our team helps you design a layered solution that matches your specific operational and compliance needs.
Learn about Pharmaceutical Vault Requirements →

4. Turnkey Design-to-Install

From engineering and fabrication to installation, our in-house team manages every step. We can provide PE-stamped structural calculations, coordination with architects and GCs, and project management for new or retrofit facilities.
Typical lead times average 8–10 weeks, with expedited production available.
See Our FAQ →

5. Future-Proof Security

Our modular design allows easy reconfiguration or expansion as your operations grow or regulatory standards evolve—no need for costly demolition or reconstruction.

What to Consider When Planning Your DEA-Compliant Vault

Before beginning your project, make sure you’ve evaluated:

• Substance Classification: Your vault or cage design depends on the DEA schedule level.
• Structural Capacity: Vaults are heavy—ensure your floor slab or building can support the load.
• Access & Monitoring: Plan for electronic locks, day gates, and alarm integration.
• Operational Flow: Design around how inventory moves—intake, storage, and dispensing.
• Documentation: Maintain access logs, SOPs, and inspection records for full DEA compliance.

For a deeper look at preparing for inspections, see our post:
What to Know for a DEA Inspection →

Why Choose International Vault?

For over 40 years, International Vault has delivered high-security vault systems for pharmaceutical, government, banking, and commercial applications.
Our experience ensures your project is handled with the precision, confidentiality, and technical expertise it demands.

Read About Our Legacy of Security →

Ready to Secure Your Facility?

If your organization stores or distributes controlled substances, you need a storage system built to DEA standards and engineered for performance.
Contact our team to discuss a vault solution customized to your needs.

📞 Call: 800-437-5377
✉️ Email: info@internationalvault.com
🌐 Learn More: https://internationalvault.com/pharmaceutical-vaults/