Dispensary Outage

 To maintain operational continuity during power, internet, or system failures. This SOP outlines how to handle interruptions in a way that preserves compliance, secures assets, and minimizes downtime.

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Shift Lead
General Manager
Budtender
IT Support

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As needed during unexpected system, network, or power outages

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1. Identify the type of outage. Determine whether the issue is related to power, internet connectivity, hardware, or software.
   
2. Notify the Shift Lead or General Manager immediately. Escalate to IT support or your service provider if needed.
   
3. If power is out, ensure customer and employee safety. Use flashlights if necessary, evacuate the sales floor if lighting is insufficient, and secure all product and cash in vaults or locked drawers.
   
4. If the internet is down but power is functional, switch to manual check-in and recordkeeping. Use paper logs to record customer IDs, timestamps, and transactions.
   
5. Suspend online ordering and curbside services temporarily until systems are restored. Notify customers via signage or phone if applicable.
   
6. Pause all non-essential activities such as product intake or inventory movement until systems are functional.
   
7. Record all manual transactions on a backup template, including product name, SKU, quantity, and price. Ensure accurate handwriting and complete logs for every sale.
   
8. Store all manual logs in a secure location. These records must be entered into your POS or compliance system as soon as service is restored.
   
9. When systems are back online, reconcile manual records with POS inventory. Investigate and resolve any discrepancies before resuming normal operations.
   

Document the outage, actions taken, and recovery steps. Submit an internal incident report and notify state regulators if required.

• Paper check-in and transaction logs
  
• Flashlights or emergency lighting
  
• Backup power supply (if available)
  
• Secure cash and product storage
  

Incident report template

Keep paper logs, pens, and flashlights in a designated outage response kit at the front desk or manager’s office. This allows staff to act quickly without searching for supplies.