Rekeying locks is one of the best ways to ensure a safe workplace. Rekeying is the process of changing the internal components in a lock to make the old keys unusable. This is a more cost-effective solution than replacing the entire locking mechanism. How often should a company rekey their locks? Answers depend on a number of factors including turnover in the workforce, security incidents and industry-specific requirements. This article discusses why rekeying is important, when to do it, and the best practices for maintaining security in your business.
Why is rekeying important for businesses?
Rekeying locks can be a vital security measure for business.
- Prevent Unauthorized Entry: Old keys may still be in the possession of former employees, contractors or vendors, which poses a security threat.
- Reduce Theft Risk: Stolen or lost keys can be used to gain unauthorised entry and steal valuable items.
- Ensure Employee Safety: By ensuring that only individuals with authorization have access to premises, you can create a safer work environment.
- Rekeying can be a cost-effective security solution. It is often more affordable than changing the entire lock system, while still improving security.
The Factors That Determine How Often A Business Should Rekey
1. Employee Turnover
Employee turnover is one of the main reasons why businesses rekey their locks. Rekeying is recommended for businesses that frequently hire and fire employees, particularly those who have access to sensitive areas. It’s not guaranteed that an employee will return their key if they’ve made a copy.
Suggested Frequency : Rekey at least every six to twelve months, or after an employee who has key access leaves the company under adverse circumstances.
2. Lost or Stolen keys
Rekeying the locks is essential if a key disappears. This will prevent unauthorised access. Stolen keys are often used to break into homes or for other security breaches.
Suggested frequency: Rekey as soon as a lost or stolen key occurs.
3. Security Break-Ins or Incidents
Rekeying is necessary to restore security in a business after a break-in, or a burglary attempt. Rekeying can help eliminate the risk of intruders having obtained or copied keys.
Suggested frequency: Rekey as soon as possible after a breach of security.
4. Changes in business operations or ownership
Rekeying locks is a good idea when a business undergoes structural change, such as a new owner, office relocation or expansion. This will ensure that current employees and management have access.
Suggested Frequency : Rekey immediately following ownership or operational changes.
5. Scheduled security upgrades
Regular security audits can help companies identify vulnerabilities and implement updates. Rekeying is one of the updates that can be implemented to improve security.
Suggested Frequency : Rekey at least every 1 to 2 Years as part of routine maintenance.
6. Specific Security Requirements for Industry
Certain industries such as government, finance, healthcare and the healthcare industry have more stringent security regulations that require businesses to adhere to strict rekeying procedures to meet industry standards.
Suggested frequency: Follow industry regulations which may require rekeying once every few months to annually.
Best Practices for Rekeying Business Systems
Maintain a key control policy
Track who has keys.
Limit the number who have access to sensitive areas.
Employees must return keys to the company when they leave.
Use Master Key Systems Wisely
The master key system provides different levels of access to employees.
Make sure that master keys are stored securely and only trusted personnel can access them.
Implement keyless or digital locking systems
Smart locks or electronic locks can be beneficial for businesses with high security requirements.
Access control is easier and more secure with keycards, biometric scanners or keypad entry systems.
Working with a professional locksmith
Rekeying should be done by a locksmith who is qualified.
You can also get advice on how to improve security, like installing high-security locks and access control systems.
Regularly review security measures
Perform a security audit to determine if rekeying of locks is required.
Keep up to date with the latest security technologies and practices.
The frequency with which a business should change its locks is determined by a number of factors. These include employee turnover, security incidents and industry regulations. Businesses should, as a rule, rekey locks at least once per year or more often in high-risk areas. Businesses can protect sensitive data, employees and assets by prioritizing security.
This article was written by Unico Locksmith. Unico Locksmith is a local locksmith located in Maryland. They specialize in residential and commercial lock changes, re-key services, automotive locksmiths services, and locksmith qualified emergency situations. Contact Unico Locksmith to get the best emergency locksmith in rockville MD today!
