DEA may exercise discretion regarding the degree of security required in NTPs based on such factors as the location of the program and the number of patients, security guards, physicians, and staff members connected with the program. [21 CFR 1301.74(l)].

In determining whether an NTP's security system complies with federal regulation, DEA considers several factors, including but not limited to the following [21 CFR 1301.71(b) and 1301.74(l)]:

• Type (e.g., methadone, LAAM) and form (e.g., bulk powder, liquid, tablets) of controlled substances handled;
   
• Quantity of controlled substances handled;
   
• Location of the facility (e.g., high or low crime area);
   
• Type of building construction (e.g., brick or frame);
   
• Physical layout of the program interior (e.g., degree of separation of patient areas from medication dispensing and storage areas);
   
• Type of safe or vault used;
   
• Adequacy of electronic detection and alarm systems;
   
• Number of patients enrolled in the program;
   
• Availability of local police protection or private security; and
   
• Adequacy of key control systems and/or combination lock control systems.