Master Key System And How They Work
What is a Master Key System (MKS)?
Mechanical Masterkey systems are designed for multiple door entry throughout buildings such as apartment complexes with one key. Correct key management is a way of increasing commercial security by providing or limiting access.
Where are they used?
Master Key Systems are commonly used in schools & education buildings, office blocks, serviced flats / apartment complexes and care homes. In an office environment company directors and managers can hold a master key to access all offices, documents storage and equipment.
Who can benefit from holding a master key?
Security Guards are able to check areas of limited access making it easier to always have a correct key especially applicable during the night. Cleaners will be able access multiple rooms and not have to carry a separate key for each door. Family members of care home will gain a peace of mind that their loved ones have some level of safety and privacy. Company directors and management staff can access selected office areas and documentation etc.
Access Levels
2 access levels are usually quite common, but there can be up to 5 access levels which are often described as
- Great grandmaster key
- Grandmaster key (GMK)
- Master key
- Submaster key
- Sub keys
How do the MKS locks work?
Cylinder locks have additional pins wafer/master shim. The master shim is inserted between the top and bottom pins and allows the master key to unlock multiple doors.
How long does it take to install a Master Key System
Obviously it depends on the number of locks and keys. Typically it can take less than 1 day to install all the locks in a school, office, or any property with multiple entrances and exits.
Points to note when planning an installation
Changing over to a more complicated key setup should be planned. This makes work with the locksmith more productive.
- Note the door types (UPVC and wooden combinations often have cylinder lock designs)
- Euro cylinder (with thumbturn locks on inside) are ideal
- Specify the people key holders and permitted access (a drawn family tree chart is a good idea)
- A locksmith can provide a key naming or numbering system that ID’s each key
Patented systems
Master key systems can be patented, making it illegal to copying keys without authorisation.
LBP Master Key Systems
If you are interested in implementing a master key system MKS in Brighton LBP supply Mul-T-Lok or ISEO MKS mechanical only. PIN tumbler locks in the form of rim cylinders and Euro Cylinders, usually 1 or 2 levels but can design more if required. Get in Touch with LBP Locksmiths Brighton, trusted family local business with the ability to put together a locksmiths team for larger contracts.
Photo credit: Mul-T-Lock™