There are some commercial buildings which need additional security as opposed to conventional locks. Some organizations store cash, confidential information, regulated products, customer data, drugs, valuable equipment and expensive inventory.

High security locks are locks that offer more security against forced entry and better control over the making of additional keys. These locks are commonly found in warehouses, medical practices, finance institutions, government building, jewelers, technology businesses, apartments, and property management offices.

Best results are obtained from considering the door as an entire security system and not just relying on the lock.

Features of High Security Locks

According to the brand and the model, a high security lock is made up of:

• Hardened steel parts

• Drill resistant inserts

• Reinforced cylinders

• Complicated pin settings

• Resistant to picking and bumping

• Patented and limited keyways

• Sturdy bolts and latches

• Restricts unauthorized production of keys

There is varying level of security. A locksmith will be able to help in explaining the characteristics of the different systems as well as recommending hardware that suits the risk level of the property.

No matter how robust the cylinder, it cannot take care of a weak frame, a damaged door, loosened hinges or improperly installed strike plate. Everything should be considered together.

Restricted Key Control

Normal commercial keys can easily be copied from a hardware shop or automated kiosks. There is a security threat here as it is possible that the owner of the business does not know how many duplicates are available.

The restricted key systems aim at controlling the duplication of keys. Copies of new keys can only be made by authorized locksmiths and requires an authorization card, signed permission or written authorization.

This could limit the possibility of former employees, contractors, tenants and employees making duplicates of the key.

Limited keys are especially useful in master key systems because in case a master key is lost or copied, one can gain entry into many doors.

Securing For High Risk Zones

Not all internal doors need to have high security hardware. Business owners can choose to concentrate the security of their building on certain areas.

These are some of them:

• Server room

• Cash office

• Medicines storage

• Inventory room

• Executives’ offices

• Customer data storage

• Equipment room

• Maintenance room

• Research facilities

Outside entry points may also benefit from stronger cylinders, strengthened strike plates, latch protection and heavy duty locks.

Mechanical High Security Systems

Mechanical high security locks operate through using physical keys and does not rely on any form of energy supply, software and internet connectivity.

Such locks can have restricted keyways, interchangeable cores, master key abilities, drill resistance and pick resistance.

Mechanical high security access systems can be useful where there is need for better physical security without installing an entire electronic system. It can be used to act as a back up to an entire electronic security system in case there is a failure.

Electronic High Security Access

An electronic access control allows a company to perform administrative functions like issuing out personal credentials, restricting time of entry, instantly disable a user and record transactions.

One can also install an electronic reader with a high security mechanical cylinder. The employees will use the card or the fob to get access to the property. The managers will retain a limited key for emergencies.

The electronic system needs constant monitoring of batteries, software permissions, administrator password, wiring, back up power source and cybersecurity.

Upgrading Commercial Doors

It is possible to upgrade the security of most doors without having to install a whole new door. Some of the upgrades include:

•  High security cylinders

• Strikes strengthening

• Latch guards

• Deadbolt upgrades

• Key restriction systems

• Extended mounting hardware

• Door and frame strengthening

A locksmith needs to consider the state of the frame, hinges, closer, type of door and past damages before recommending an upgrade.

Fire doors and emergency exits have to comply with the life safety requirements and hence added security measures should not interfere with their performance.

Key Management Policies

High security hardware can only work effectively when proper policies of access are adopted.

Each key should be numbered, documented and assigned to an authorized person, employees should neither lend keys nor copy them, any lost key should be reported immediately.

The access should also be considered every time an employee changes position, a contractor completes a job and a manager changes.

Professional High Security Installation

One can use a commercial locksmith to identify weaknesses in the entries and formulate a high security plan for the building.

Right high security hardware can give enhanced physical security, better key control and reduced risk of unauthorized access.