Every building has locked doors needing a key. But did you know how complex it is to design and maintain a keying system? In this blog, we will tackle common problems and solutions regarding the fundamental building block of a building’s key system!
Problem: We recently lost a copy of a “high security” key. If we cannot retrieve the key, what are our options for keeping our building secure?
Solution: A “high security” key cannot be duplicated without proper documentation and a letter of authorization. Such a key allows a holder to access secure parts of your building, often including the exterior door(s). However, this doesn’t help your current situation! To guarantee building security, you will likely need to re-key some or all your doors (depending on which key was lost).
Problem: I need duplicate keys for my building, but the previous building owner or manager did not provide any details. How can I get additional keys?
Solution: Each key manufacturer is unique, so getting a new key can be tricky if the manufacturer is unknown. Fortunately, the keying experts at LaForce can identify the key manufacturer and obtain duplicates for you. We offer a quick turnaround time and high-quality service.
Problem: Our electronic card reader has malfunctioned! How can we get into our building?
Solution: Luckily, your key system came with a manual override key. In case of a reader malfunction, the locking function of a door with a card reader is used for key override. These are typically keyed alike to a department master, the grandmaster, or an individual key override key.
Problem: Our constituents are demanding higher security in our building. How can we make this upgrade?
Solution: Security for semi-public buildings is an increasingly common concern, especially in healthcare and education. If your building currently has minimal security and needs an upgrade to an integrated security system, LaForce’s Security Integration Team can consult with you and provide a quote.
Problem: We don’t want to pay the extra cost for a “high security” system. Can’t we just have our regular keys stamped “do not duplicate”?
Solution: Unfortunately, a “do not duplicate” stamp only works if where you are having the keys duplicated honors that stamp. Many run-of-the-mill key duplication centers (hardware stores) will make copies of such keys. Therefore, this stamp is not how to make a non-secure key into a “high security” one. Your best bet is to upgrade your system with genuine, “high security” hardware and keys.
Problem: No one on our staff knows much about key systems! How can we get help creating our new system with LaForce, and how long does it take to work out any kinks?
Solution: LaForce has a team of Keying experts who can assist with this process. They can help design a key system based on past knowledge and experience and make it presentable to you and your building administrators. Since many of our customers have varying degrees of comfort with complex systems, LaForce’s team tries to make it easy to understand. Whether it’s a small Masterkey system, a mid-size Grandmaster key system, or an extensive Great-Grandmaster key system. Most building administrators work through any changes. LaForce can then adjust based on owner preferences to suit the end user’s keying needs better.
Problem: My new building has over 1,000 doors! How will I identify my new keys when they are shipped to me?
Solution: LaForce makes shipping as easy as possible and will work with your contractor to deliver your keys in a sensible manner. Depending on your specific needs, we can ship the keys with the locks, packaged into individual envelopes, or even shipped in a pre-indexed key cabinet. Master keys will be delivered separately for added security.
Problem: Our keying system is convoluted and unorganized!
Solution: Your building security is at risk if there is no effective key management, distribution, or record-keeping plan. It is important to train staff regarding keeping the right doors locked, proper key policies (issuing and returning), unauthorized key duplication, and haphazard key loaning. A building manager also must keep track of the number of “master keys” that have been issued.
If your current system is a scrambled mess, we recommend that you take the following steps:
1.Examine your facility’s approach to key systems control:
- Is key control understood by all?
- Senior administration must support the system.
- Define policies on issues and collection of keys.
- Define the current level of record keeping.
- Who’s responsible for key control?
- Who’s accountable?
2. Organize documentation and gather information:
- Document existing keying system(s) data.
- Determine the accuracy of key inventory.
- Perform a site survey:
- identify buildings, floors
- door/opening
- hardware
- keying identity
- Identify current key holders and their keys.
3. Develop policies on controlling the keying systems:
- Who or what area will be responsible?
- Formalize policies governing the key systems.
- What level and amount of information is needed?
- Signatures authorization procedures
- Issuing keys
- Collecting keys
Key System Process with LaForce
LaForce’s Keying Specialists partner with our Project Managers to provide quality security and life safety products.
- Designing the system: Our keying team uses their experience to outline a key system that best fits the owner’s security needs and requirements.
- Meeting: LaForce can meet with the building owner virtually or in person to review a proposed key schedule or discuss integrating an existing key system.
- Finalizing the Plan: LaForce’s Keying department retains the key system records for future needs or modifications after the key system is finalized.
Key System Service
A well-designed key system is crucial to ensuring proper building security and functionality.
LaForce provides optimal building security by utilizing our knowledgeable keying experts. Our experts are dedicated to carefully planning key systems that allow for convenience without sacrificing security. They guide you through the keying process by working directly with you. Our team assists you with both your current system and future facility needs.
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