S.L. 458.16 Art. 9Standards relating to a pharmacy.

A licence for a pharmacy shall only be granted if the pharmacy complies with the following standards:

(a) easy access to the public;

(b) the external appearance reflects the professional character of the pharmacy and make it clear to the public that the practice of pharmacy is the main purpose of the establishment;

(c) the premises are compatible with the workload carried out within it whilst ensuring efficient and effective communication between the pharmacy staff and members of the public;

(d) the walls, floors, ceiling, windows and all other parts of the premises are kept clean in such manner that any surfaces present shall be impervious and may be easily wiped clean;

(e) the premises have a clear area set aside for the preparation and compounding of medicinal products and diagnostic testing;

(f) the pharmacy premises are kept in an orderly, organised condition;

(g) the premises provide an environment, in respect of space, temperature, lighting, humidity, noise levels and other factors, which is in conformity with occupational health and safety requirements, thereby providing a safe environment for staff and members of the public visiting the premises;

(h) all products present on the premises are protected from the adverse effects of extremes of temperature, sunlight and excess humidity in a manner that there shall be always followed the maximum or minimum temperature and humidity and any other condition specified on the packaging by the manufacturer;

(i) all openings to the outside of the premises are securely locked when the pharmacy is closed;

(j) the toilet facilities are kept clean and in good working order. Facilities must include hot and cold water, soap and nail brushes and a hand drying facility. The toilet area must not be used as a source of water for dispensing or as a storage area;

(k) all pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical waste and expired and deteriorated products are to be segregated from pharmacy stock and placed in a designated quarantine area. The safe disposal of pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical waste is to be made according to regulations under this Act or any other law.