Master Key Lock System: Choosing the Right Solution

What is a Master Key Lock System?

A master key lock system is a plan whereby a limited number of keys can open many predetermined locks. It is an efficient way to manage and control access to certain areas in a building, as well as reducing the cost of replacing lost or damaged keys. The caretaker, security staff, or management personnel would be designated as key holders.

The schematic for the master key system is like a blueprint for building security. It lays out how each employee's key works - for example, one key opens the main entrance, their office door and their filing cabinets. However, there are different types of locks: padlocks, cabinet locks and door locks. The type of lock depends on the security needs of the building.

The master key system has many levels of keys and locks that can be tailored to fit the specific needs of any business or organization. A single change in the system can be made without impacting the final cost before an order is placed. This makes it an extremely versatile tool that can grow and change with your business needs over time!

Designing a Master Key System

When designing a master keying solution, it is important to first understand the opposing forces of security and convenience. Security is essential to protect your property, while convenience makes it easier for people to access what they need. It is also important to keep in mind that simple keying systems are often more secure than complicated ones, and they last longer too. Also noting, cross keying is a more complicated system that reduces security.

System Structure

When planning your key system, it is important to consider the structure of your organization and how you want the keys to be used. There are many different options available, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Master key systems and restricted key systems provide the most security, while combination locks offer ease of use and flexibility.

If the design protection has expired, master key systems are no longer legally compliant. It is also important to remember that master keys may not be accounted for, which could leave your organization vulnerable to attack. Lockwood can help you choose the right solution for your needs and ensure that your key system is compliant with all applicable regulations. We offer a range of registered and restricted key systems in a variety of different forms and security levels to meet your specific requirements. Our solutions are used for government, commercial, and institutional applications around the world.

System Levels

Master key systems come in a variety of levels, depending on the needs of the company or organization. The two most common levels are 2-level and 3-level systems.

A 2-level system has two keys: the change key and the master key. The lowest level is called change keys, and these are used to make changes to the locks in the system. The key at the top is called the master key, and this is used to open any lock in the system.

In a 3-level system, there are three keys: change key, master key, and grand master key. The grand master key is used to open any lock in the system, just like in a 2-level system. However, a 3-level system is nothing more than two or more 2-level systems tied together under a higher-level key called the grand master key.

4-level Master Key Systems have four levels of keys instead of three. This allows for increased traffic flow through the locks in the building. 4 level Master Key Systems are typically used in large buildings where security is a high priority. Just like a 3-level system, a 4-level system can be in most buildings but not all.

As you can see, there are many different levels of master key systems, each with its unique benefits. It's important to choose the right level for your company or organization's needs.

System Expansion

When designing a master key system, it is important to consider the possibility of future expansion. This means establishing realistic expansion parameters and submitting them to the manufacturer. For example, you may want to specify the maximum number of masters under grand, as well as changes under each master. It's also important to define where each cylinder will be used. By doing so, you can ensure that the system can grow with your organization.

Of course, it's impossible to predict every possible scenario. But by planning for expansion now, you'll save yourself headaches down the road.

Download our Master Key System Design Guide (PDF) for more information.