master key system

Master Key System Advantages: Master Keyed Lock Systems for Commercial Properties

The Advantages of Master Key Systems


Master key systems offer numerous advantages for commercial properties, providing efficient and secure access control solutions. The Flying Locksmiths understands the unique security needs of businesses and specializes in master key systems tailored to their requirements. Let's explore the advantages of master key solutions that utilize high-security keys and locks for commercial properties & facilities, and how they enhance commercial security and convenience with access permissions and a systems master key.


What is Master Keying & What are Master Keyed Management Systems?


Master Keying:


Master keying is the process of creating a hierarchical structure of keys that allows authorized individuals to access specific locks while granting a single master key access to all locks within a system, this creates the master key system. Each lock is keyed and has its own individual key, known as a change key, while the master key operates all locks in the system. This system provides controlled access, with different levels of authorization, ensuring security and convenience. The systems can be mechanical, using cylinders, or can be electronic, depending on the door hardware of your property and desired level of security.


Keyed Management Systems:


Keyed management systems are comprehensive frameworks that incorporate master keying principles. They enable businesses to effectively manage access control by assigning different levels of access to individuals or groups. This ensures that only authorized personnel can access specific areas while maintaining a high level of security throughout the property.


Why Businesses Choose Master Key System Solutions?


Enhanced Security: One of the primary reasons businesses choose master key system solutions is the enhanced security they provide. By implementing a master key system with locks containing key cylinders, organizations can control access to different areas within their property, preventing unauthorized entry and safeguarding valuable assets. This heightened level of security contributes to the overall safety and protection of the business.

Convenience and Efficiency: Master key systems offer unparalleled convenience and operational efficiency for businesses. Instead of carrying multiple keys, employees can use a single key to access designated areas, simplifying key management. This not only saves time but also reduces the risk of key loss or duplication. Additionally, in emergency situations, authorized personnel can quickly access necessary areas without searching for specific keys.

Flexibility and Scalability: Master key systems are highly flexible and scalable, making them an ideal solution for businesses. As the company grows or changes, the system can be easily modified to accommodate new access requirements. This flexibility allows for the addition or removal of locks, rekeying existing locks, or creating sub-master keys for different departments or sections. Master key systems adapt to the evolving needs of the business, ensuring long-term effectiveness.


Master Key System: Lock & Key Management Tactics


Restricted Keyways: Restricted keyways are an important tactic in master key system management. By using restricted key blanks, which are only available to authorized locksmiths, businesses can enhance key control and minimize the risk of unauthorized key duplication. This added level of security ensures that only authorized individuals can obtain keys for the master key system.

Key Tracking and Documentation: Proper key tracking and documentation are essential for effective master key system management. Maintaining a comprehensive record of key distribution, along with regular audits, allows businesses to monitor access with electronic detection and identify any potential security breaches. The Flying Locksmiths can assist with key management strategies, ensuring the master key system remains secure and well-managed.


Sample Layout of Keys in a Master Key System


Layout of Keys in a Master Key System

Sample Floor Plan of Openings in a Master Key System


Sample of a Master Key System Floor Plan

Grandmaster Key, Master Keys and Change Keys for Master Key Systems


Grandmaster Key:


In larger organizations or properties with multiple levels of access, a grandmaster key may be implemented. A grandmaster key is a key that operates multiple master key systems within a facility. It provides high-level access control, allowing authorized personnel to access all areas across different master key systems. The Flying Locksmiths can design and implement grandmaster key systems tailored to the specific needs of businesses that have multiple buildings or areas where they need to control access.


Master Keys:


Master keys are an integral part of any master key system. They provide authorized individuals with access to multiple locks within the system. The Flying Locksmiths can create and manage master keys, ensuring they are securely distributed and properly controlled to maintain the integrity of the master key system.

Master keys can be useful in organizations with multiple buildings, departments or areas that require varying levels of access. By assigning master keys to authorized personnel responsible for specific openings of the facility, businesses can streamline access control, enhance security and convenience while maintaining controlled access throughout the property.

Remember, proper key control, tracking, and documentation remain crucial for effective master key management and keeping your business safe. We can assist in implementing comprehensive key management practices, ensuring the security and integrity of the entire master key system.


Change Keys:


Change keys are the keys that grant access to specific openings throughout the property. For instance, a door that is used only for delivery personnel to drop off packages, would use a change key. The delivery companies would have a copy of the change key for the delivery entrance but that key won't open any other doors on the property. Each change key is used to open a specific door or set of doors depending on how access needs to be granted throughout the property.

In the master key system sample above, change keys are the keys that fall under a master key and open specific doors. Key 3AA is for the gas company, they can access the gas storage outside the building, but also the main door and gas storage room inside the building. They will only be able to get through these doors to do exactly what they need to do without being able to access any other space in the facility. Likewise, key 4AA is for the linen company, their key will only open one door so they can replace the linens. Key 4AA will not open any other door in the master key system.


Sub-Master Differ Key


In addition to the master key and change keys, another key variant in a master key system is the sub-master key, sometimes referred to as a differ key. Sub-master keys are designed to provide access to a subset of locks within the system, typically within a specific building, department or area. These keys offer an intermediate level of access control between the master key and change keys, granting authorized individuals access to multiple locks within their designated area while limiting access to other parts of the building.

Sub-master keys can be useful in organizations with multiple buildings, departments or areas that require varying levels of access. By assigning sub-master keys to authorized personnel responsible for specific sections, businesses can enhance security and convenience, as well as streamline access control while maintaining controlled access throughout the property.

Remember, proper key control, tracking, and documentation remain crucial for effective sub-master key management. The Flying Locksmiths can assist in implementing comprehensive key management practices, ensuring the security and integrity of the entire master key system.


Contact Your Local Flying Locksmiths Team Today


A master keyed system offers significant advantages for commercial properties, including enhanced security, convenience, and scalability. The Flying Locksmiths specializes in providing customized master key system solutions, tailored to the unique needs of businesses. With our expertise in master key systems and high-security keys and locks, we can guide business owners and facility managers in implementing effective access control strategies tailored to their specific needs. Contact your local team of commercial locksmiths to discuss your security requirements and learn how you can benefit from our expertise in master key systems.