Multi-building campuses such as universities, business parks, research centers, medical facilities, hotels and resorts often require several different types of physical security technologies as part of a comprehensive, overall security strategy. As a critical element of the plan, many organizations rely on an automated key management system to provide a higher level of control in securing, accessing and tracking keys.

An automated key control system is a reliable and cost effective method to improve campus security by ensuring that facility keys are properly managed. The automated key cabinets release assigned keys only to users with the proper authorization code (biometric identification and/or numerical code), and cannot be manipulated or easily tampered with. Online monitoring, updating and reporting capabilities enhance the functionality of a key control system and add to the integrity of the venue’s security.

A networked key control system can reduce risk while adding convenience to the user as well. For example, in an organization with employee or student ID cards, the cards can be used to access the key cabinet. For added convenience, networked key control systems allow keys to be returned to any location in any key cabinet in the system, and that location is automatically recorded. An employee or contractor who must temporarily leave the site can return the key to the closest key cabinet for safe keeping and retrieve it when they return. Or, when a company vehicle is moved from one building location to another, either temporarily or permanently, the keys can be returned to the key cabinet in that location. The system will record the location and time so anyone looking for those keys will know where they are currently located.

Automated key control systems that enable this kind of site control concept enhance an organization’s ability to advance and improve efficiency in its security planning as well as in operational procedures.