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Many businesses are in high turnover industries, which means employees often come and go. This can include restaurants, call centers, etc. In these kinds of businesses, very often keys are given to the employee so they may access the building. However, when that employee leaves this means that you must receive that key or else rekey the location again. Even then you cannot be sure the key hasn’t been copied. It is important to protect the property and people in your business, but also to manage your resources properly. However, every time a business is rekeyed that means everyone need a new key. If you have 10 employees each year and 5 of those employees leave each year, thats 5 rekeys and 50 keys each year. So what can possibly be done to prevent this inefficiency? There is a solution to prevent this: Brivo Mobile Pass. With an electric strike and a Brivo Access Control System installed on your door, Mobile Pass allows you to issue “digital keys” which allow your employees in and out of your facility. You can set schedules and permissions for access, so your employee walks up to the door with their phone and Voila! The door unlocks. The best part of the solution is this: Your employees leaves the company, so instead of a rekey, you can log into your app from any device connected to the internet, and remove the pass from the former employee, it immediately goes back into your account to be assigned to another employee. Not only are you not having to spend money on rekeys and key, but this all happens in a matter of seconds from wherever you are, instead of having to schedule a locksmith to come out and perform a service. To implement this Brivo Mobile Pass solution at your location, schedule a free estimate on your schedule with one of our Experienced Account Managers. They can help guide you to the right solutions and create a custom plan specific to your business needs.

A question we get asked time and time again in our industry is, “can anyone copy this key?” Too often customers ask to have “Do Not Duplicate” stamped on the keys, but don’t realize that this is only a visual deterrent. There are no legal ramifications for any locksmith copying these keys, as the key cuts on a standard key cut are not patented. So the answer to the question “who can copy my key?” is a scary one. Anyone can copy your key. All they need is your key and a key machine found at a local hardware store. This is a scary thought when considering how often your keys leave the premises in the pockets and purses of employees every day, and how many of those keys get lost. The more keys you need to pass out, the higher the security risk, and once you discover a key lost, the cost to rekey your space goes up as well. So how can we prevent this from happening? The best way to prevent this issue is by using a Protected Key System. With a Protected System such as Medeco X4, you get a patented keyway that is specific to a locksmith, which means that it cannot be copied by anyone other that the locksmith. This allows you to control copying of keys to you or someone else you authorize. If a key is lost, it cannot be copied by anyone who picks it up. If you are interested in getting more information about protected key systems or getting a quote to install one at your property, schedule a free assessment below.

Why Do Not Duplicate Keys (DND) Offer No Copy Protection and How You can Protect Yourself! A common solution for preventing keys from being copied is to have the words Do Not Duplicate on them. This is based on the belief that if a key says “Do Not Duplicate” it cannot be copied. However this is simply not true. A key can still be copied if it says DND on it for two reasons: Firstly, there is no physical deterrent. This means that nothing can physically keep a person from copying the key. Most of these key blanks are readily accessible at any hardware store, and either the key can be copied in a machine (which does not recognize the label) or by an employee who isn’t paying attention. Watch this video of one of our Account Managers Testing this! Secondly, there is no legal deterrent. There are no laws that protect a key that is stamped “Do Not Duplicate”. There are also no patents on most standard key blanks, as they are available across the market. There is no legal ramification for acquiring a blank and coping a key that is marked DND. This means that the only benefit that DND provides on a key is a visual deterrent. This means that if a person or a vendor is given the key, we hope they see DND on the key and decide not to copy it based on the label. However, it should be known that if someone ignored the label, there is NOTHING preventing the key from being copied. So How Can You Protect Your Keys From Being Copied? If you don’t want your keys to be copied by an unauthorized person or vendor, we recommend a restricted key system such as Medeco M3. A restricted key system provides all the benefits that DND does not. Medeco M3 keys provide a physical deterrent, because the blanks are authorized to a specific locksmith who owns the keyway. This means no other locksmiths even have access to the blanks. The locksmith also only copies the key for yourself or others you have personally authorized to cut the keys, which means if a person acquires your key and goes to that locksmith to copy it, they will be refused. Medeco M3 keys also provide a legal deterrent. They are patent restricted which means it is legally protected from being duplicated except by the authorized retailer who has the patent (the locksmith you purchased it from). As we stated before, this locksmith owns the blanks and has the sole permission to copy those keys for you. Ask yourself, who can copy my key, and how easily could they do it? If you aren’t happy with the answer, perhaps it is time to consider upgrading the security of your locks. Protecting your people and your property is our top concern, and we hope it is yours as well. If you are interested in a quote for a Medeco M3 system or need more information, click here to set up a free quote assessment.

The phrase “High Security” gets thrown around a lot when talking about key systems, but what does this phrase actually mean? Is it just a buzz word or is this an important distinction to make when selecting locks or keys? A High Security key system generally is distinguished by two characteristics: Key Control and Physical Protection. Key Control means that the keys are difficult or practically impossible to duplicate without permission. For example, Medeco M3 keys require a special key cutting machine and access to Medeco specific blanks, available in a variety of restrictions. This means only the locksmith you purchased from can make copies of the key, and they will only do so with your authorization. This effectively allows you to control your key copies even in the event that a key is lost or stolen. Physical Protection in a key system means that the hardware is physically resistant to tampering and attempted entry. Medeco M3 cylinders are UL 437 listed (a rigorous standard used for testing lock security) and stand up to drilling, picking and other forms of physical attack. The cylinders do this by using a sidebar that prevents the key from rotating until it is elevated, rotated and aligned in the correct position. This feature offers protection against bumping and picking attacks. These two features combine to give us a High Security key system, which gives you a sense of security about your locks and keys that you cannot have with those of a lower security standard. If you are interested in a quote for Medeco M3 or have more questions, click here to schedule a free quote assessment.

Today we are going to answer the question ‘What Do I Do If My Business Is Vandalized?’ A 2020 article from the Washington Post stated “… police chiefs report business burglaries are surging as thieves target shuttered establishments and fewer cleaning crews are working in office buildings at night. He said commercial burglaries drove the overall burglary rate up nearly 44 percent in Seattle, 41 percent in Denver and 17.5 percent in New York.” At Loc-Doc Security, our Mission is to help you protect your people and your property. We recently had a customer that experienced a smash and grab break in and their property was vandalized. This can be a stressful situation but we can learn from it by sharing how we helped solve our customers problem and how to protect your business from break ins and being vandalized! Problem: A restaurant was broken into in. Burglars smashed a glass door to access the property. Solution: A Steel Metal door with Half Glass that was Laminated and Reinforced to help prevent Smash and Grab Break ins. Step 1: Take Action – Board it up! One of the first things to do once assessing the situation is to take action and secure the opening. Boarding up the door can help to immediately secure the building. It can be easily done with plywood on your own, or we can do it for you. Make sure to take pictures of the damage and fill out a police report. Step 2: Decide – Do You Repair or Improve? The next step is to decide whether the door can be repaired or if it should be improved. Smash-and-grab burglaries can cause property damage because of the violence used to enter the property. In this case the customer decided to improve the door instead of just replacing the glass that was broken to enter the building. Step 3: Solution – A Custom Solution based on the customers needs? One of the questions we had was “Why Can’t you just replace glass?” or “Why not a Full Steel Door?” Our customer still needed to be able to see out of the door to provide service to their patrons. After discussing several options, we improved the opening with a Steel Door and Laminated Glass. Safety and security window film installed on a window is an invisible, but strong, layer of defense. It helps prevent smash and grab thefts and improves safety concerns caused by broken glass. We also added a push bar to exit but not enter to assist their needs with closing time. Having a push bar to exit means patrons can exit the building safely (and is code compliant) and also ensure the safety of employees closing up for the night with out anyone entering the premises. Step 4: Preventive Measures So how do you prevent break ins or smash and grabs at your business? Here are a few tips with some preventative measures. Keep It Neat: Keep your premises clean, tidy, and free of trash. Disorder attracts vandals. Ensure Good Lighting: Make sure your property is well-lit at night. Check light bulbs regularly. Install Security Cameras: Install video cameras to monitor activity on your premises. When crimes have occurred, police can use your recorded video to catch the perpetrators. Install Break-resistant Glass: Glass that is break-resistant or coated with laminate or security film is stronger than regular glass and difficult for vandals to penetrate. Consider Shrubbery: Shrubbery can discourage vandals from entering your property. Shrubs that have prickly or scratchy leaves like holly and pyracantha can help keep intruders away.

Today we are going to answer the question ‘How Can I Change My Locks?’ At Loc-Doc Security, our Mission is to help you protect your people and your property. We recently had a customer that experienced an employee leaving on bad terms and not turning in their keys to the building. This can be a stressful situation for business owners and property managers and create a security risk. Having keys to your building or property floating around is not something that any business owner wants to experience. We can learn from this experience by sharing how we helped solve our customers problem and what it means to change your locks. Problem: An Employee was terminated and didn’t turn in the keys to the building. Solution: Rekeying the locks and providing new keys. Question 1: What Does It Mean To Change My Locks? Changing a lock means a locksmith removes the old hardware on the door (like the handle or knob) and replaces it with new hardware. This is usually asked for by our customers but can be expensive and unnecessary. When talking with our customers, we discover the root of the problem. In this instance, the keys to the building had been compromised by the terminated employee. The solution for our customer was to rekey the locks. Question 2: What Does It Mean To Rekey My Locks? Rekeying your locks is a cost efficient solution instead of replacing the entire lock. When you rekey a lock, you change the lock to a different key instead of replacing the lock itself. Rekeying a lock involves removing the cylinder (the place where the key goes), opening up the interior, and replacing the pins (tiny cylindrical pins that match up to the key). The interior of a lock is made up of pins and tiny springs in a plug. When you push the key into the lock, this forces the pins up and down at varying heights and opens. Question 3: Why Would You Want To Rekey Your Locks? In this scenario, not receiving the keys from a terminated employee was the reason they contacted us. The most common situations for a rekey are similar to the one mentioned and the following: if you’ve moved into a new property, if you’ve lost your keys terminating an employee when you have multiple keys for different locks and want to consolidate them to a single key. We were able to rekey the existing facility for our customer when their keys were compromised and help them have a feeling of safety. Talking through the problem with our customer was part of the winning solution to save money and made the decision easy for our customer to protect their people and their property. We can help you protect your people and property with a rekey or protected key system. Book a free evaluation with our team below!

Have you noticed your door slamming shut when it used to close smoothly? Why is the door slamming? Why isn’t the door latching shut like it used to? The answer could be simply a change in the season or weather! Door closers (the mechanical piece mostly found at the top corner of the door) should be checked in every season and adjusted as the weather changes. Why does the weather affect your door closer? Inside of the door closer is hydraulic fluid. The change in cold or hot weather can can affect the hydraulic fluid and lead to a loss of pressure. This can easily be adjusted on the closer itself by adjusting the following areas. 1. Back Check (last 5-15 degrees of the door opening) 2. Swing Speed (from an open position to the last 5-15 degrees during closing 3. Latching Speed (last 5-15 degrees of the door closing) 4. Spring Strength (how much power or resistance the door closer has) If you are a DIYer, you can use an Allen wrench or a Screw driver to adjust the door closer till it shuts without slamming. Watch our video below on how to adjust your door closer. If you’re not handy or don’t have time to work on your commercial doors, we offer full professional locksmith service to adjust your door closers. Schedule service online quickly and easily online below!

Today we are going to answer the question ‘How Can I Easily Manage My Key Card System?’ At Loc-Doc Security, our Mission is to help you protect your people and your property. We recently had a customer that had an existing key card system that was difficult to navigate. They had to visit each actual site in order to make changes to employees access. This was cumbersome and time consuming. Having to visit each property to make changes for building access takes up way too much valuable time. We can learn from this experience by sharing how we helped solve our customers problem and how to easily manage your key card system without having to be there in person. Problem: An existing key card access system was difficult to manage and had to be done in person at multiple locations. Solution: A cloud based access system that manages multiple locations from any device (mobile, desktop, or tablet) from anywhere you are! Question 1: What Is an Access Control System or Key Card System? An Access control system or Key Card System, is a way to control who can enter a location. This can be a way to control who can enter certain areas, like employees, contractors, janitorial staff, and even visitors. Most systems use a key card or key fob that is scanned at a reader near a door. This credential opens the door and gives access to the area. This is also good for knowing who has been in what locations and for how long. Question 2: What Are The Benefits of Using an Access Control System? No Lost Keys – One of the benefits of using an access control system is the elimination of physical keys. Sometimes keys are lost and rekeying a building and distributing new keys can be costly. Having a key card system or access system can utilize key fobs, key cards, and even electronic credentials that work on your mobile phone or smart watch. If a key card or key fob is lost, you can easily disable it and assign a new credential without the expense of rekeying a whole office building. Having Audit Trails – Another benefit for an Access Control System is the data they track. Once a user is assigned a credential, you can see if and when someone entered an area and a specific time. Physical keys don’t leave an audit trail. Key Management – Depending on your role, you may need to enter many different buildings or rooms. This can be a hassle if you have to have a physical key for every door. With an Access system, it’s as easy as a few clicks to assign areas and buildings for different users. Increased Control – Using an Access Control System makes it easy to manage who can enter, which doors they can open, and specific times they can access the building. Question 3: Why Would You Want To Upgrade Your Existing Access System? In this scenario, our customer had an existing system that was running on old windows computers at multiple locations. Having to travel to each location to make changes to who had access to the building was wasting a lot of time. With New technology, we can convert old access systems to a Cloud Based Management Software to easily make changes no matter where our customer is. No more traveling to different locations and working on old computers. This system can be accessed from your mobile phone, laptop, tablet, and even a desktop at home. Some of the benefits are: Using Cloud Based Technology Gives You Freedom: no driving to different locations, easily managed. You Can Manage One Location or One Hundred: have multiple properties? No problem! Manage from ANY Device: mobile phone, tablet, laptop, desktop – no complicated software, just an easy interface. Reduced Maintenance: with Cloud Based System, you don’t have to mess with physical servers, software licenses or updates or patches. Secure Credentials: You can quickly issue or revoke in the system from anywhere in the world. Issue Digital Credentials: This is a credential shared to a smartphone and is great for people that forget their card and even vendors. We were able to upgrade the existing Access Control System for our customer and make it easy for them to manage their key card system from anywhere in the world! We can help you protect your people and property with a cloud based access control / key card system. Book a free evaluation with our team below!

Today we are going to answer the question ‘Who Can Copy My Keys?’,’ What Does Do Not Duplicate Mean On A Key?’, and ‘What Is A Protected Key System?’. Today we are going to be answering questions around do not duplicate keys. Our mission is to help you protect your people and your property, and keys are part of that protection. Keys have one of two rules to either provide convenience or security. When security is the primary focus, a common question that is asked is ‘how do I keep people from copying my keys’ or ‘how can I know who has a copy of my keys?’ A common misconception is that if you stamp ‘do not duplicate’ or have keys printed with do not duplicate on them that it will protect against an authorized duplication or prevent from people getting a hold of your keys without your knowledge. We’re gonna put that idea to the test. We visited a local hardware store with a kiosk that allows you to duplicate keys without interacting with anyone. We took two different keys, both say do not duplicate. Let’s see what happens. Now that we’ve seen the video, you might have more questions like: ‘Is it illegal to copy keys without permission?’ Can Anyone Copy My Key?’ ‘Why would one key copy and work and why would the other give an error message what are the difference between the two? Why should I care if somebody can copy my key at a kiosk? What should I do if I don’t want people to copy my key at a kiosk? Will this ever change? Will those protected keys ever be able to be copied at a kiosk? We will learn what it means to have Do Not Duplicate on a key. What Does ‘Do Not Duplicate’ Mean On A Key? In the locksmith business, we are asked to stamp this phrase on countless keys for homes and businesses and it always brings up the question: Why do people request this? This is a tactic known to many as a visual deterrent. In other words, it is something that gives the appearance of security to ward off potential wrongdoers. The most common example of this is a scarecrow on a field of crops, which derives its name from the fact that it is a visual deterrent in order to scare the crows from eating or damaging the crops. Unfortunately, in the case of securing our businesses with locks and keys, the perpetrators are not birds, and it takes a bit more than a few words to scare them away. The Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA) says, “Do Not Duplicate Keys: Orders for keys stamped “Do Not Duplicate” or similar wording will be handled in the same manner as any unrestricted key. ALOA members should inform the consumer that the use of keys stamped “Do Not Duplicate” or similar wording, is not effective security, and further that the use of such words is deceptive because it provides a false sense of security. Consumers who desire effective security should purchase a patented key control system rather than rely on a “Do Not Duplicate” marking. This does not apply to keys protected by law.” Unfortunately, stamping Do Not Duplicate on a key means nothing unless it is a protected key system. What Is A Protected Key System? One of the unique identifiers for Loc Doc Security has been the Protected Key Systems we offer through Medeco. Medeco offers products that are Restricted, meaning they are only licensed to specific dealers. Loc-Doc, Inc is a dealer of Medeco products. If we generate a Medeco key, the only way to get additional copies is by requesting it through us. No other locksmith company has access to our records, our keys or our systems. When we get a key request, they are checked and validated through the proper authorization contact on the account before any additional copies are made. We highly value and protect our restricted key system. Many times in a business, the value of the facility is not reflected in the quality and security of the locks meant to keep them safe. Here are 3 reasons a Protected Key System can benefit your business. 1) Security of Key Blanks: The first benefit of a Protected Key System is that your keys are patented and restricted. This means that your key provider is the only vendor with access to your key blanks. These are made specifically for your locks and no one else’s, and no other locksmiths can get the information or blanks to your locks. There are some locks that are so common that it is incredibly easy to get a key blank to fit it, as well as make a key that will work it. Not so with a Protected System, to even get a key blank you must go through the vendor. 2) Duplication Control: The second benefit of a Protected Key System is Duplication Control. This is an important point for many reasons; with a standard blank, anyone can walk into a Lowe’s or Home Depot, place the key into a machine, and Voila! a copy of the key to your commercial facility (Yes, even if it says Do Not Duplicate!) is produced. However, with a Protected Key System like Medeco M3, we would only cut keys for you or any one you personally authorize to request keys. 3) Audit Trail: Another benefit of controlling your keys is keeping track of key requests and how many keys have been copied. In your business you may have several people within your organization who needs certain keys. Because we are the only vendor who has access to your key blank, we can also keep track of who requested which key, and how many keys are currently in circulation. When a key is lost or unaccounted for, you can come to us and quickly get an audit trail of who is responsible for the loss or which keys are missing. Wal-Mart, Home Depot and Lowe’s all have self serve kiosk that allow anyone in possession of any non-restricted key (meaning open market key blanks) to walk up, put the key in the machine and duplicate them without any validation. There are also a number of smart phone apps, including KeyMe which allow anyone in possession of any non-restricted key to take 2 pictures (Front and Back) of the key and request a copy to be mailed to them without the key even leaving the property. This can be a great resource and an incredible tool to use, but it also opens up the possibility for unauthorized duplication. With a Protected key system in place, you will have a patented key system that is protected by law from unauthorized duplication. Ask yourself, What is your home or business worth to you? When you look at your key system, does it reflect that worth? We can help you protect your people and property with protected key systems. Not sure where to start or if you have a protected key system? Book a free evaluation with our team below!

Today we are going to be answering questions your Community or HOA might have about pool gate code requirements. Our mission is to help you protect your people and your property, and there isn’t a more important thing to protect than your Community Pool and the people who will visit your pool. We routinely encounter questions from communities who are concerned about the security of their pool gates and that have questions about being code compliant. With the weather beginning to warm up, the Opening Day for Pool Season will quickly approach. We want to help you and your community be prepared with a little prior planning so you will have a seamless opening day! Addressing issues now before the Pool is inspected can be the difference between passing or failing. We are going to cover some of the commonly asked questions for Pool Gates when it comes to a health inspection or fire inspection. What are code requirements for my pool gate? Although there are many requirements, we will be covering 4 Main aspects today. You can find the complete list by clicking here. Gate Height: Does your gate meet the minimum height requirements? Gate height must be a minimum of 48′ tall, including the gate and fencing surrounding it. This 4 foot minimum is to prevent people from hopping over the gate but mainly to ensure that young children are unable to access the pool to prevent accidental drownings. Self Closing & Self Latching: Does your gate automatically close and positively-latch, and is the self-latching device 54 inches or less from the bottom of the gate? On the outside of the gate on the right side, we see the closer attached to the gate which is self closing. Once opened, there is enough pressure from the closer to ensure it shuts completely and latches. This is to prevent any young child from being able to enter from a propped gate and reduces the likelihood of an accidental drowning. Swing Direction: Does your gate swing outwards? Gates must swing outwards from the main pool area unless topography or landscape prevents it. All pool gates that were constructed after 2010 are automatically out swing gates. This means the gate opens toward you. This is important for several reasons; the first being preventing small children from leaning on the gate and it fall inward allowing a chance of accidental drowning, and the second for people inside the pool to be able to exit quickly in an emergency by pushing on the bar to open. Locking Mechanism: Does your gate’s release mechanism require the use of a key, combination, or card reader to open? Your gate needs to be locking with either a key, combination, or card reader (utilizing a key card, fob, or mobile credential) to comply with code. This is to prevent unauthorized people from accessing the pool or community amenities. While working with communities for the past 20 years, we’ve learned some of the roles that the inspectors and HOAs play and how it can affect your pool opening. The Health & Safety Inspector is focused on ensuring young children cannot accidentally access the pool and keeps an eye out for hidden dangers, as well as making sure that there are emergency actions that can take place quickly in the case of accidental drownings. The Fire & Life Safety Inspector is focused on ensuring people can exit the areas if there is an emergency or issue. HOA Boards are focused on safety but with a priority on ensuring the right people have access to the facility during the correct seasons and hours. Code compliance can be complicated which is why we are offering 2 classes in March to help you learn the 3 Essentials necessary for a Safe and Successful Pool Season. In this class you will learn the ins and outs of gates, key card / fob systems, and cameras. Our Instructors will help you understand different solutions to solve pool code violations and malfunctions. You will also discover the components of a pool gate and how they work, techniques to control the access to your pool and other common areas, and how to protect your people and property.

Today we are going to answer the question: How can I reduce the number of keys for my Properties? We’ll also answer the question: What is a GMK or Grand Master Key System? At Loc-Doc Security, Our Mission is to help you protect your people and your property. A customer of ours recently was in need of a large key system that would be able to cover several large buildings without creating a large quantity of keys for the maintenance team to manage. We will review how we were able to help them manage their properties and reduce the number of keys for their Facility Managers to access all of the buildings. Keying Levels First, let’s cover the different levels of keying. Understanding the different levels and how they operate will help with the concept. Keying Levels are similar to an organizational chart in any company. When thinking of the levels of keying, just think of a structured corporate organization chart. At the Top is the CEO or Executive. Under the Executive are several Department Heads or Supervisors. Finally, under Supervisors are the employees. The CEO or Executive block at the top would be the Grand Master Key. A GMK or Grand Master Key System is simply a key in a built system that operates all locks. This would include separate groups that have their own Master Keys. The Grand Master Key can operate any lock, on any door, at any of the multiple facilities. The Department Heads or Supervisors would represent each separate building Master Key. That means the Master Key can operate any lock, on any door, in their building but no others. For example, Master Key 1 would operate all of the locks for Building 1, Master Key 2 would operate all of the locks for Building 2, Master Key 3 would operate all of the locks for Building 3, and so on. Master Key 1 would not be able to access Building 2 or Building 3. They would only be able to access their building, in this example Building 1. The last level would be the employees or Change Key. This would be giving them access to a specific area in the building. For example, John an employee in the Research Department would receive a key that works only in the approved areas in the Research Department. The Key would not work in other Departments or Areas of the building. Let’s Review the Different Levels From Least Access to The Most Access: Change Key: Access to only one lock. The Master Key can open this lock. Master Key: The Master Key can lock and unlock all Change Keys below it in the System. Grand Master Key: The Grand Master Key gives access to Multiple Master Keys and Everything Under. Great Grand Master Key: This key grants access to all Grand Master, Master, and Change keys underneath. How Master Key Systems Work Now let’s explain How Master Key Systems Work. At a simple level, a Master Key System will allow 2 or more keys to open one lock. There are some advantages to having a Master Key System. Elevated Security: Having a Grand Master Key System allows you to designate different levels of security and access to employee roles. Streamlined Access: There’s no need for Facility Maintenance or Management to carry a heavy key ring or chatelaine bulging with keys for different properties. With a Grand Master Key System, you can access multiple facilities with just a single key. So where could you use a Grand Master Key System? Most School Systems & Districts, Managed Commercial Properties with Multiple locations, Hospitals, and Universities are prime candidates for this type of system. As a Facility Manager or Property Manager, it can be frustrating to have to manage a giant ring of keys for multiple buildings. So now we get to the question everyone wants an answer to; How can you reduce the amount of keys for your properties? One economical solution would be to place your properties on a Grand Master Key System. If you are managing the Facilities of 10 commercial buildings, you can reduce the number of keys the Janitorial Staff would need to access the buildings, or anyone else that would need multi access to the properties. Reducing the number of keys from 30 to 1 while ensuring that the right people still have access to their designated areas. We can begin to plan out a key system for your property and customize it for your different areas, properties, and even levels of access. Most of the time, it is a best practice to follow departments or buildings organizational charts like we referenced in the beginning and add the building core areas like stairwells, HVAC, Electrical or IT rooms. If you need help planning a Grand Master Key System or You are interested in learning more about reducing the number of keys to your properties, we can help. Schedule a free evaluation with our team at locdoc.net/sales and pick a time that works for you.

Today we are going to answer the question: What is PoE? How can it save your building money? How does PoE work? Why do I need PoE? We’ll also give you 5 benefits of PoE. At Loc-Doc Security, Our Mission is to help you protect your people and your property. PoE stands for Power over Ethernet. This is a way to carry electrical power by data cables. These cables contain multiple wires that allow an electrical current to flow through the ethernet cable with the normal data. One of the advantages to using PoE is the reduction of the amount of cables usually required for any network devices. Usually, a device that would connect to the internet (or LAN network) would require a cable to carry data and one to carry electricity to power the device. By using a PoE, you eliminate the need for an additional power cable since the ethernet cables carry the electricity. Why do you need PoE? We utilize PoE in electronic access control. Doing this allows us to expand the coverage area to more doors, more areas, and for more applications. In the past, access control was used primarily for the perimeter of a building. With the increase of technology, innovative solutions have come to market like Intelligent WiFi, that can improve the safety and security of your business while offering additional benefits like energy efficiency. Here are 5 benefits of PoE! Flexibility: One of the most frustrating things that can happen when trying to plan your building security is feeling like you’re limited to certain locations that have access to electrical outlets. With PoE, your security cameras and wireless access points can be positioned where you want them in the most ideal location and if you change your mind, they can be easily repositioned! Savings: Managing a facility makes you mindful of your expenses. With PoE, you are saving time and also money. You eliminate the expense of installing electrical power cabling with an electrician since network cables don’t require electricians to install them. You also save overall in your energy costs. Utilising PoE dramatically reduces the amount of energy your building consumes. There are case studies that show how PoE reduced the energy required by LED lights as well as one study that showed a company saving 177,000 kilowatt-hours after combining IoT and PoE, for a total of $45,000 a year! You can save with Security, lighting, heating and cooling of the building! Reliability: Using PoE power is reliable since the source comes from a central location and can be backed up by a UPS (uninterruptible power supply). This means it will continue to operate even if there is a power outage or failure! Safety: One important benefit of PoE is Safety. PoE is designed with safety in mind with power delivery. This will protect network equipment from any power overload, under power and since it’s low voltage power, it eliminates the dangers that come with working with dangerous high voltage power sources. Scalability: We love this benefit of PoE because of how the facilities and buildings we work with can transform over the years. Using PoE gives you the ability to scale up as your business expands. As your needs change, you are able to add or install additional products on the network simply without having to overhaul the entire system. If you have questions about PoE or want to know what would work best for your needs, we are here to help. Schedule a free consultation with our professional team at a time that works best for you below.

Today we are going to answer the question: How to choose the right padlock? We’ll also discuss how we put 3 padlocks to the test. At Loc-Doc Security, Our Mission is to help you protect your people and your property. We continue to share information like this to help you be informed so you can know the best solutions for the security of your property. There are a plethora of padlocks on the market today, however, we will be sharing our experiment with 3 padlocks. We will test each padlock individually using the same setup and materials to keep a standard of equality. Our team connected a smart car and pick up truck with a heavy duty chain held together by each padlock. In this tractor pull style, we will be putting all 3 padlocks under the same pressure test to see how they perform under force. One thing to note is the old proverb, “A lock only keeps honest people out” and keep in mind that we are only testing durability under force. The first padlock to the test is what we call our go to Padlock. This Abus padlock is used for simple preventative measures on gates and trailers and can withstand a great amount of force. This padlock can be matched up to an existing keyway so it can coordinate with your facility. This is great when you want one key to open multiple areas in your facility. For example, a key to provide front door access, supply closet, and maybe an open air gated storage area can all be keyed the same since the padlock has a cylinder on the bottom. The second padlock was a Master padlock mostly used on light equipment and small trailers. Unfortunately, this lock snapped in seconds under the force of pressure. The shackle ended up being pulled from the body of the padlock. In a real world scenario, this padlock could be hit with a hammer or sledge hammer and easily be broken or opened. This padlock would be good for lightweight applications. This type of padlock does not have the ability to be keyed to match your facility and comes with 2 provided keys from the manufacturer. This lock would be useful for small equipment such as a weed eater or bicycle. The third padlock is a Medeco heavy duty beast. This Medeco Padlock is great for Cargo transportation, Power Utility Gates, heavy duty equipment and trailers and can withstand all types of weather. It even has a cover to protect against the elements. Key retention is another great feature of this heavy duty padlock. This means the key can’t be removed without engaging the lock. This padlock comes with a protected key system which makes the key unable to be duplicated at a key kiosk or any other locksmith without your knowledge or permission. While this was a fun experiment, at the end of the day, we recommend padlocks based on the application you would use it for. We can help you decide what would work best for your facility. From common lower end models that can be grabbed off the shelf, to a large quantity of padlocks that can be master keyed to match your facility, we can help you figure out what would work best for your needs! If you would like to learn more about choosing the right padlock for your facility schedule a free evaluation with our team!

Today we are going to answer the question: How to lubricate my lock and why you should lubricate your lock? We’ll also discuss what is the best lubricant to use in a lock. At Loc-Doc Security, Our Mission is to help you protect your people and your property. We continue to share information like this to help you be informed so you can know the best solutions for the security of your property. One of the questions we get asked by our customers is ‘Why do I need to lubricate my locks?’. While there are many lubricants on the market, not all of them work well with locks. We will cover three different types of lubricants; WD-40, Lock Saver Synthetic Lubricant, and Graphite Lock Lubricant. First, Why do I need to lubricate my locks? If you’ve ever noticed your key sticking in your lock or having a hard time turning when the key is in the lock, this could be a sign that you need lubrication. If your door hinges are squeaking and making a lot of noise, this could be another sign you need lubrication. Metal that rubs against metal can get worn down and would be a great candidate for using lubrication. Another thing to consider is the temperature that the lock is exposed to. WD-40 is very popular and commonly used for an assortment of reasons like preventing rust, removing gum from clothing, removing crayon marks from the walls, and for cars, motorbikes, and around the home. While this is an amazing product, it is actually harmful to place inside your lock as a lubricant. One of the main reasons is that WD-40 isn’t a true lubricant! WD stands for Water Displacement meaning it removes water and oil and can actually remove any existing lubrication already in the lock which can leave it dry and even susceptible to sticking. Customers that use WD-40 on their locks usually contact us for help because their lock is sticking or gummed up. This is caused by the collection of lint, dust, and even grime that get stuck inside from the WD-40 and cause the interior lock pins to stick together. Although the lock will work well when first applied with WD-40, it eventually will begin to break down and cause additional damage. Please, Do Not Use WD-40 on your locks. Up next is powdered graphite which is known in the industry as a legacy lubricant. Many old fashioned locksmiths have relied on powdered graphite as a lubricant for locks but there are a few drawbacks with this type. The first disadvantage is that it is extremely messy. The powdered graphite can be hard to get into the cylinder and can leave its mark on nearby carpet. Graphite is used inside of pencils, so you can imagine the mess that it can make on handles and floors. Like we stated earlier, powdered graphite is an old fashioned lubricant and with the advancements in synthetic material there are now newer lubricants that will perform better with less of a mess. Finally, let’s look at the last and our favorite lubricant, Lock Saver Synthetic lubricant. This lubricant is specifically designed for locks and is a dry non oily protectant. This dry style will ensure that the inner workings of the lock will not attract or hold dust, dirt, sand, or any other debris that can be transferred from keys in your pocket. This elimination of dust and debris means your lock will operate smoothly without any interference or stickiness. Now that you have the correct type of lock lubricant, you need to know how to actually use it on a lock. To lubricate a lock, insert the straw that comes with the aerosol lock lubricant and spray a small amount into the cylinder of the lock. Insert your key into the cylinder and remove it checking for any debris attached to the key. Keep repeating this same action of insert and remove until the key comes out clean. Keep track of when you lubricate and set a reminder to do it again in about 6 months or sooner if your lock is exposed to the elements. If you would like to learn more about selecting a lubricant for your facility schedule or to see what upgrades you need for your facility, schedule a free evaluation with our team!

What are Hardware Grades? How is a hardware grade determined? And Why you need to know what hardware grade is in your building? Today we are going to answer the question: What are Hardware Grades? How is a hardware grade determined? And Why you need to know what hardware grade is in your building? We’ll also discuss what grade to use in commercial buildings versus residential properties. At Loc-Doc Security, Our Mission is to help you protect your people and your property. We continue to share information like this to help you be informed so you can know the best solutions for the security of your property. Hardware grades are very important to consider when selecting products for your building. Choosing the right products can make or break your buildings security. I heard a good example of explaining grades of a product from a friend talking about camera gear for a wedding. Consider the equipment that the photographer would use for the event. In a gear bag, you would find several high quality DSLR Cameras that cost thousands of dollars with lenses and flashes. What you wouldn’t find would be disposable cameras or portable casual cameras. Could you imagine a professional photographer using a disposable camera to cover a wedding? Although it would be quirky, the results wouldn’t be worth it in the end. Another great example is the ratings of vehicle tires. The variety of tires for a vehicle is great but they are all measured by The UTQG (Uniform Tire Quality Grade) treadwear rating. This is a number stamped on the tire sidewall that relates to expected tire life.You know upfront how many miles the tires will give you before your investment. In basic terms, and in the spirit of the concept, the higher the UTQG treadwear rating, the greater the tire life. A tire with a “600” treadwear rating is forecasted to last twice as long as a tire with a “300” rating, and should accumulate three times the mileage of a “200” rated tire. The same goes for Hardware grades for your building. Putting a grade of hardware on your building that is slated for residential use could cause significant problems down the line. That’s why Knowing what level you are putting on your building is essential. Let’s find out more about hardware grades so we know where to start! What are hardware grades? First, Manufacturers do not generate hardware grades. Hardware grades are guidelines developed by ANSI and BHMA to rate and rank the quality of products. ANSI & BHMA evaluate products based on several different criteria including Strength, Security, Dimension, , Finish and cycle count which is the number of times you can use before it breaks. Here is a great video explaining BHMA grading! There are three different hardware grades. Grade 1: Heavy-duty commercial Grade 2: Light-duty commercial Grade 3: Residential Grade 3 Hardware Residential – Good (3rd Place) Grade 3 hardware is built for residential use and has a low cycle count. This works well for doors in your home that don’t get much use or have as much traffic as a business would. to withstand a low cycle count because it was specifically designed for residential applications. This is the lowest grade and should never be used in commercial applications. These locks are just not able to hold up to the frequent traffic that most businesses have. The good news is that they work great for normal traffic in your home (up to 200,000 cycles) but if you’re looking for something more durable move up to Grade 2. Grade 2 Hardware Light-Duty Commercial – Better (2nd Place) Grade 2 Hardware is good for Commercial properties that have light use. This is for properties that have light traffic flow and still want a secure choice. These locks have passed a 400,000 cycle test. While this isn’t great for areas that are used daily, it could be a smart option for closets and private offices. This is the most common type of hardware found in offices and can handle significantly more than a Grade 3. We rank these types of hardware as second place as a great runner up to Grade 1. Grade 1 Hardware Heavy-Duty Commercial – Best (1st Place) Grade 1 hardware is our first place winner. This hardware is specifically designed for heavy duty commercial use and is found on commercial buildings. The testing for these types of hardware proves that it can withstand wear and tear and many cycles of use with 1 million cycles. While this grade can be more expensive than Grade 2 or 3, it is usually worth it for high traffic areas. Grade 1 is going to be more secure and durable than grade 2 or 3. If you want to learn more about hardware grades, or you need help deciding which hardware grade would suit your facility, schedule a free evaluation with one of our professionals!

Oftentimes when there’s been a security breach or a need for quick personnel restructuring, most facility managers will contact a locksmith to change the locks on the building. Professional Locksmiths have the skillset and tools to remove and replace locks on your facility. But what happens when something goes wrong in the middle of the night and you don’t want to wait for a locksmith? Today we are going to answer the question “How can I rekey my door without a locksmith?” At Loc-Doc Security, Our Mission is to help you protect your people and your property. We continue to share information like this to help you be informed so you can know the best solutions for the security of your property. We’ve referenced what an interchangeable core is in previous articles. Take a minute to refresh your memory by clicking on the link to the previous article. Interchangeable cores work well in Restaurants, Retail Environments, and other facilities that may have rapid turnover. By having a designated controller, which could be a facility manager, restaurateur or manager onsite, you can swap the lock easily by using a control key to remove the core and replace it with a different one. This takes seconds to implement and is simple for anyone with the control key to complete! Here is how implementing Interchangeable Cores can benefit your business! Rapid Response: When someone loses a key, responding quickly can keep your facility secure! With no wait time or scheduling delays, you can easily change the locks yourself and distribute the keys immediately. Saves You Money: Interchangeable cores can save you time and money. The expense that can come with rekeying a suite or floor is quickly minimized with the simple task of replacing the interchangeable core. It also saves time with the rapidity of being able to swap out the cores. We all know that time is money so a huge benefit is the ability to get back to business without delays. Masterkey Friendly: We’ve discussed Masterkey systems in previous articles, but Interchangeable cores can be integrated to a master key system. This means that if there is a lost key, it can be changed at the master key level without requiring the other level of keys to be changed! Using Interchangeable cores at your facility can help you manage your building easily! Using a control key, they can be easily added and just as easily removed without the need for a professional locksmith call. Storing replacement cores on-site can help you immediately respond to any security issues without delay. If you are interested in using Interchangeable cores at your facility, schedule a free evaluation that works for your schedule with one of our professional account managers.

Are you wasting valuable time having to physically open your business door to let someone in? Whether you are a Retail Business, Warehouse, Business Office, Hospital, Clinic, Medical Facility, Dentist, or Private Physician, using a Receptionist Door Release Button is a popular and efficient approach to avoid the repetitive motion of having to open the door. Today we are going to answer the question: ‘How Do I Unlock The Door From My Desk?’ At Loc-Doc Security, Our Mission is to help you protect your people and your property. We continue to share information like this to help you be informed so you can know the best solutions for the security of your property. We receive a multitude of calls throughout the year from a variety of customers that have a front desk receptionist and are looking for a way to unlock or buzz someone in through a locked door. Instead of getting up and down multiple times a day to receive visitors, this simple button solution keeps the facility secure while still being convenient. Protecting the security of your facility can be a high priority for business owners especially in areas with high foot traffic. Incorporating a Door Release system or a Buzzer system can prevent random solicitation and ensure strangers aren’t able to wander around your facility. There are two different types of solutions that we will discuss and some of the benefits. Buzzer or Buzz In System and Receptionist Door Release The first is what people call a Buzzer or Buzz In System. A doorbell Buzzer or button is installed on the exterior of your property and allows visitors to push the button alerting you with a buzz or another sound to let you know they are there. This can be set up as a buzzer intercom system where the customer can state their name and respond to the receptionist. It can also be a video buzzer intercom system allowing them to see who is at the door. The second is a Receptionist Door Release Button. The components that make up a receptionist door release system can be a combination of using a power supply, mag release and electric strike. The power supply runs to the door and the receptionist can have either a wired or wireless button to open the door. A wired button can be installed discreetly under a desk in the reception area but most choose to go with a wireless remote. Some of the benefits of the wireless remote button that our customers rave about is the ability to continue working without being interrupted! Best of all, they aren’t stuck at the desk to press a button! You can be up and around the office with the remote button in your pocket and still be able to let an expected visitor or vendor in the door. You can even open multiple doors from one main location. Or have dual remotes for the same opening if you have a large reception team. Examples of where this can be helpful is in Delivery areas to a business, Waiting Rooms in a Hospital, Clinic, Medical Facility, Dentist, or Private Physicians offices. The biggest motivation for a Receptionist Door Release Button or Buzzer or Buzz In System is convenience. Being able to separate a waiting room from private examination rooms or allow deliveries from UPS and FedEx to the back of your warehouse can give you back valuable time to continue growing your business. If you have more questions about Receptionist Door Release Buttons or Buzz In Systems meet with one of our professionals for a free consultation at a time convenient for you!

With Universities, Colleges, and Schools getting ready to go back to school and business establishments, shopping centers, and places of worship open and in full swing, one of the things that comes to mind is safety. As a parent, you want peace of mind that your child (no matter the age) is safe while at school. As a spouse, you want to ensure your husband or wife is safe while at work. With active shooter drills being the norm in schools and even workplaces, we currently exist in a devastating reality where mass shootings happen and we must focus on reducing tragedies. Sometimes bad people do bad things. Although their motives vary, the effects are the same. At Loc-Doc Security, Our Mission is to help you protect your people and your property. While this is a particularly grim topic and the odds that you will be a victim of a mass shooting are low, we wanted to share this information to help you be informed so you can know the best solutions for your personal safety and security. Since 2009, there have been 255 mass shootings in the United States, resulting in 1449 people shot and killed and 961 people shot and wounded. These mass shootings have taken place in the workplace, schools, places of worship, restaurants, bars, clubs, colleges, universities, and retail shopping centers. While the statistics that show how often shooters were inside the location of the shooting are staggering, there are steps that can be taken to minimize the violence. Image from https://www.theviolenceproject.org The Federal Bureau of Investigation and U.S. Department of Homeland Security recommends Run, Hide, and Fight in active shooter situations. If at work or school, you are most likely to be in an office or classroom setting where running and evacuation isn’t always possible. Being able to hide and be out of view in a locked room that can withstand a brutal physical attack is paramount. First, let’s cover what Attack Resistant Glass can’t do. Attack Resistant Glass is not bulletproof. It will not stop a bullet from going through. So what can Attack Resistant Glass do? Attack Resistant Glass can maintain its structural integrity when hit with bullets or repeatedly with strong force. This means that even if shot you won’t be able to break through the glass. Bullets can go through the glass, however it’s designed to minimize breaking through and that would prevent an attacker from being able to breach the opening. This attack resistant glass has been put through rigorous testing and if under an attack, it can withstand it for over 4 minutes even with a combination of bullets and a physical attack with an object like a hammer or butt of a rifle. Even though bullets will penetrate the glass it remains in place to prevent anyone from entering or reaching through to unlock the door. Since active shooter situations are often over within 10 to 15 minutes, before law enforcement arrives on the scene, people in schools and workplaces must be prepared for the situation. This extra time can help keep any occupants safe and secure until first responders can neutralize the threat. This is a life safety solution that gives people enough time to take cover and wait till first responders arrive. Attack Resistant Glass is an easy and affordable solution to enhance the security of any opening especially in schools, busy public venues such as government buildings, offices, places of worship. Now for some frequently asked questions: What is the difference between Attack Resistant Glass and Security Film? Attack Resistant Glass is a laminate with glass on both sides that is designed to withstand an intruder attack for 4+ minutes, even after bullets go through the glass. Security film is an externally applied plastic that was designed for blast purposes to keep glass from becoming shrapnel, it has not been proven to provide attack resistance for more than 5 seconds. Does Attack Resistant Glass look different from regular Tempered Glass? No, they look the same. Attack Resistant Glass and standard glass are clear and typically only 7/16″ thick. Ensuring your school or facility is secure and safe during an attack can feel overwhelming. While a sober topic, we are able to help provide support and education on attack resistant glass so you can protect your people. If you want to learn more about attack resistant glass for your school or office, schedule a free evaluation with one of our Security Professionals.

Today we are going to answer the question: What’s the best way to electronically secure my door? What is a Mag lock? What is an Electric Strike Lock? We’ll also discuss the advantages and disadvantages of Mag Locks & Electric Strikes. At Loc-Doc Security, Our Mission is to help you protect your people and your property. We continue to share information like this to help you be informed so you can know the best solutions for the security of your property. Electronic Locks on doors and even Access Control have continued to evolve over the years. While you may walk past one without even knowing it was on a door, there’s more than meets the eye. Electronic locks contribute more to your safety and security and you can find them on commercial buildings, government buildings, healthcare facilities, and schools. Today we are taking a closer look at the most common types of locks used in Access Control on buildings; Magnetic Locks (or commonly known as Mag Locks) and Electric Strike Locks (commonly known as Electric Strikes). Knowing the advantages and disadvantages of each lock can help you make decisions for your facility. Magnetic Locks aka Mag Locks What is a Magnetic Lock? Simply put, it uses magnets that create a seal. A Magnetic Lock is made up of 2 components; an electromagnet and an armature metal plate. The magnet is usually attached to the door frame and the plate is attached to the door. When the two pieces come together and touch, an electric current goes through the magnet and creates a charge. This charge attracts the plate and prevents the door from opening. Once the power is removed, the magnet loses the charge and the door is released and can operate. Something to keep in mind with magnetic locks is that the door is always locked from both sides. This is a great option for areas that may require high levels of security since anyone using the lock has to activate it when entering and when leaving. Mag Locks are a popular choice for offices and commercial properties and can be programmed to open with a keypad, key fob or card, or a mobile key. While the magnets are extremely strong with the electric current, they require power to remain locked. If the power was to go out in the building from a fire, the lock would go into a fail safe mode (which means an unlocked state) allowing people to exit the building. Advantages of Mag Locks: Powerful: Mag Locks can withstand a high amount of force; on average 1200 pounds but I’ve seen a few at 1800 pounds! Simple Installation: Mag Locks are simple to install and can keep a glass opening secure when you can’t add a traditional lock. Secure: locked from both sides – must scan in and scan out. Disadvantages of Mag Locks: Power: A Mag Lock requires constant power to keep it locked. If there was a power outage, the door would be in fail safe mode (which means unlocked) and it could leave the property and belongings vulnerable. Anyone can exit and anyone can enter! Application: Not as secure for some openings. Electric Strike Locks aka Electric Strikes What is an Electric Strike? An Electric Strike is just like a traditional door strike with the benefit of being electrified. Once installed in the door frame, electricity powers an internal motor that releases the door when activated. This electric signal allows the metal piece holding the door locked to move and allows the door to open. The electric signal is usually activated by an electronic card reader, Key Pad, Key Fob, or Mobile Key. Electric Strikes are made to secure one side of the door and are usually found on the exteriors of buildings. This allows the door to be unlocked for anyone inside the building but is locked to anyone outside. Electric Strikes are paired with a panic bar that allow people inside the building to unlock the door and exit the building if the power goes out. This is what is considered a fail secure mode. Advantages of Electric Strike: Affordable: Electric Strikes usually cost less than Mag Locks. Powerful: Electric Strikes holding force can range from 1500 pounds to 2500 pounds; pretty powerful! Secure: Keeping one side of the door locked gives you the ability to control the traffic into the building or area. Power: With Electric Strikes, you have greater security during a power outage. If the power goes out, the electric strike will remain locked. People can still exit the building by pressing the panic bar on the door, but no one can enter inside the building. Disadvantages of Electric Strike: Installation: Because of the complexity of Electric Strikes, installation and wiring power requires a high degree of skill. You will need a professional installer that is familiar with low voltage.

f you are a property manager or a facility manager you may have noticed numbers or letters on multiple keys on your key ring. Have you wondered what these numbers or letters are on your key? And how do the numbers on your key relate to your property’s security? Today we are going to answer the question: What are the numbers on my key? At Loc-Doc Security, Our Mission is to help you protect your people and your property. We continue to share information like this to help you be informed so you can know the best solutions for the security of your property. What are the numbers or letters on my key? The numbers or letters engraved on the key are codes that are used by Locksmiths to replicate a key to open locks. There are typically 2 different types of codes that are stamped on the top of a key. Bitting Code The first is what is known as a bitting code or direct code. The numbers relate to the cuts or depths on the key that allow a lock to open. These are usually found on sets of door locks that can be purchased at a hardware store or Big Box Home improvement store but sometimes other locksmiths will stamp them on the key. Just by knowing those codes or numbers, another key could be made without your knowledge or permission. If you took a key with a number on it to multiple locksmiths, they would use the numbers on the key to make a duplicate. This could be a security risk for your property and is something we take seriously. So serious in fact that it is our policy to never stamp those bitting codes on a key. Even so, Wal-Mart, Home Depot and Lowe’s all have self-serve kiosks that allow anyone in possession of any non-restricted key, to walk up, put the key in the machine and duplicate them with or without a bitting code. Blind Code A blind code is usually a combination of numbers and letters stamped on a key that relate to a set of codes from an individual locksmith or sometimes manufacturer. This can also be a way to identify the lock or door that the key opens. This blind code is used as a reference point to records the locksmith keeps in order to identify the locks that the key operates. Blind codes are usually used for Master Key Systems that we talked about in a previous post and even cabinet locks, desk locks, and gun safes. With a blind code, no one is able to know the cuts made for the key or the keyway used besides the original locksmith that maintains the records. This blind code can enhance your security by requiring a code record in software or database that is usually licensed to security professionals or locksmiths. Most blind codes are in conjunction with a protected key system which we talked about in a previous post. This can help to ensure no one is able to duplicate your key without your knowledge whether they take it to another Locksmith or using a Kiosk at a Home Improvement store. Ensuring your facility is secure and safe can feel overwhelming as a property or facility manager, but it is achievable when armed with the right knowledge. We are here to help you protect your people and your property and that includes support and education. If you have numbers or letters on the back of your key and want to know if your facility is secure, schedule a free evaluation with one of our Security Professionals.