A quick check of the Internet reveals dozens of gadgets and electronic devices, the sole purpose of which is to keep track of keys. There are even apps for smart phones that, when paired with a key tag, will show a map of the tag’s last or current location. They’re all very useful solutions for an individual or a household but can you imagine trying to apply any of these devices to a business situation – not a very practical idea.
In commercial applications, it makes much more sense to use professional key control and management systems. For example, a university campus will have hundreds of individuals who would have need for a key – anyone from campus security to staff to maintenance and even students – and with all of those users comes the risk of lost or stolen keys. By using an automated key control system, keys can be safely stored when not in use and access and tracking of the keys can be automatically managed.
Keys are secured in a tamper-proof cabinet and can only be accessed by authorized users who have been programmed into the database. When a key is overdue, the system can automatically send out an email to a computer, tablet or smart phone, reminding the individual that the key needs to be returned. System administrators can also quickly and easily check to see which keys are in use or have been used by simply logging on to the system. Knowing who last accessed a key is pertinent information when investigating an incident.
Automated key control systems also make accessing a key from the cabinet fast and easy. Large, easy to read LCD touch screen displays on the front of the key cabinet show the list of keys that are available to the user by their name or PIN. Rather than having to memorize the number of a specific key or other identifying procedure, the user need only touch the needed key from the list. In emergency situations when a key needs to be accessed quickly, this procedure can save precious minutes.
Fingertip access to keys saves time and energy in managing key control and the safety and security of a facility.
