Maintaining security and protecting your assets hinge on selecting the appropriate locks for your business. Commercial properties have distinct security demands, and making the wrong lock choices can leave your business open to theft or unauthorized entry. In this in-depth guide, we will walk you through the essential steps to help you pick the right locks for your business.
Complete a Security Audit:
Prior to delving into lock preferences, begin with a comprehensive security inspection of your business site. Contemplate these factors:
Location: Is your business situated in a high-crime zone or a relatively low-crime zone?
Type of Business: Distinct sectors may entail unique security prerequisites.
Property Size: Your premises’ size could affect security needs.
Access Control: Ascertain who should have access to various spaces within your organization.
Budget: Understand your financial limits for lock installation and maintenance.
Legal and Insurance Rules: There could be legal or insurance rules governing security that apply to some businesses.
Locate the Essential Entry Spots:
Pinpoint the vital access areas that should be secured with locks, including exterior doors, interior doors, storage rooms, offices, and beyond. Comprehending the areas in need of locks will simplify the process of selecting the appropriate lock types for each application.
Determine the Fitting Lock Type:
Picking the appropriate lock type is of utmost importance. Commercial properties frequently demand more robust security measures compared to residential structures. Some typical lock types for businesses include:
Mortise Locks: Trusted for their strength, mortise locks are a solid choice for both interior and exterior doors, delivering exceptional security and durability.
Cylinder Locks: Cylinder locks, which include rim and euro cylinders, are known for their versatility and are frequently used in commercial settings. They work seamlessly with different locksets, ensuring robust security.
Deadbolt Locks: Deadbolts are celebrated for their robustness and make an excellent choice for exterior doors. For top-tier security, choose Grade 1 deadbolts.
Keyless Entry Systems: Keyless entry systems guarantee convenience and enhanced security. When harmonized with access control systems, they enable precise control over who enters your business.
Meditate on Key Command:
Managing keys is essential for businesses, especially those with multiple employees or various locations. Explore these key control options:
Master Key Systems: The implementation of master key systems grants the flexibility to manage various access levels, all with a single master key.
Restricted Keyways: Employing restricted keyways is a reliable way to deter unauthorized key duplication, limiting the issuance of duplicate keys to authorized personnel.
Appraise Lock Aspects Diligently:
Different lock options include features that enhance both security and convenience.
Anti-Pick Features: Locks equipped with anti-pick pins or mechanisms provide security against lock picking attempts.
Anti-Bump Features: Bump keys are a known tool for burglars, but locks equipped with anti-bump technology provide a barrier against this method of intrusion.
Keyless Entry Systems: When contemplating keyless entry, explore locks that can be integrated with access control systems.
Audit Trails: Electronic locks with audit trail functionality offer the means to keep a record of entries and exits in defined areas.
Confirm the Accreditations and Rankings:
Look for locks that have earned certification through comprehensive testing by reputable organizations. In the United States, locks are typically evaluated based on ANSI/BHMA standards, with Grade 1 locks being the most secure.
Rely on a Specialist’s Expertise:
If you’re uncertain about the best locks to choose for your business, consider consulting a professional locksmith or security expert. They can analyze your individual needs and provide recommendations for appropriate lock options.
Setup and Monitoring:
Without proper installation, even the greatest locks won’t offer enough security. Ensure that your locks are installed by a licenced locksmith or experienced contractor. Additionally, it’s essential to do routine maintenance, such as lubrication and periodic inspections, to make sure your locks continue to function as intended.
Strategize for Upcoming Needs:
Keep your future needs in mind. If you expect shifts in access requirements or plan to enhance your security system, go for locks that can accommodate these changes.
Review Lock Functionality Before Sealing the Deal:
Test the locks out in person to make sure they meet your requirements for both use and security before making a decision.
Retrieve Multiple Quotes:
When you’re in the process of having new locks installed, obtaining quotes from multiple locksmiths or security companies can help you compare both costs and services.