Steps to Better Key Security
Whether you’re in an office, an industrial property or a retail store, the first step to improve security is to keep control of the duplication and distribution of keys.
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Whether you’re in an office, an industrial property or a retail store, the first step to improve security is to keep control of the duplication and distribution of keys. While unauthorised duplication can only be completely controlled by utilising a restricted key profile, you can control the distribution of keys by following a few simple steps.
1. Record Key Details
Each key, whether it is to a front door, a storage room or a desk, should be recorded in a key registry. Using a software program, such as the new myKeys - Tracker software you can record the details of each key and automatically track who received a copy of that key.
myKeys – Tracker also calculates how many keys you have in storage, so that you can order a duplicate before you hand out your last key.
2. Record User Details
Record the details of every employee in your key registry; including address and contact phone numbers, as well as the keys they have received. Your key registry should allow you see what keys each user currently has and when they are expected to return them.
This information is critical when a staff member is leaving or has left your organisation. A simple search will reveal which keys that staff member needs to return.
3. Avoid Descriptive Labels
One common mistake when dealing with key security is to label every key with a descriptive label such as “Computer Room Key”. If these keys are lost or misplaced it’s easy for a would-be thief to determine what that key operates.
Instead of this, you should record and label your keys with a unique number. A full description of the key should only be available in a secure database, such as that offered by myKeys – Tracker.
4. Use a Key Cabinet
The last step to improve your key security is to store your extra keys in a Key Cabinet. This is the most over-looked aspect of key security.
Many organisations neglect to secure their extra keys and store them instead in desk drawer or even worst, on a hook in full view of other staff and public.
Storing your keys in a key cabinet with a unique hook number instead a descriptive label can reduce the risk of unauthorised distribution of keys. myKeys – Tracker can be used to record your key cabinet Hook Number making it easy to locate your keys when required.