The provisions of this chapter restricting the possession of any controlled substance, empty gelatin capsule or hypodermic syringe, needle or other implement or instrument adapted to the use of such a substance by means of subcutaneous injection, or intracutaneous injection or any other manner or method of introduction shall not apply to common carriers or warehousemen or their employees engaged in the lawful transportation or storage of such controlled substances, syringes, needles or capsules, or to public officers or employees while engaged in the performance of their official duties, or to temporary incidental possession on the part of the employees or agents of persons lawfully entitled to possession.
(1979 Code Sec. 9.36.070)