Master Key Systems Explained

From offices to large facilities to rental properties, master systems have many useful applications. We are going to discuss what these systems are and why a master system is such a valuable tool for so many applications.

What is a master system?

A master system is a hierarchy of keys specifically designed to allow for tiered access to the locks you own.Much like a key card may unlock some doors but not others, a well-constructed master system can control access for employees or tenants. They can be structured to suit your specific security needs and ensure all the right people have access when they need it.

When do I need a master system?

Anyone who can benefit from the flexibility and security a master system affords can have one created. There are times, however, when it is a critical safety measure to do so. It is commonly known that commercial buildings require the installation of a Knox Box for the fire department to access doors in the event of an emergency. Master systems ensure that the one key in that box can grant first responders full access to save lives and property. When seconds mean life or death, they will not struggle with your ring of keys; they will break the door down. We spoke to a fire marshal for their perspective. They recommended that commercial buildings and multi-family residential buildings with four or more units should have a master system in place as well as a Knox Box. Fast, full access to all the rooms on the property can save occupants and the structure itself.

What do I need to know to get started?

Getting off on the right foot is very important to a master system. You will want to know how your staff will be utilizing their keys and who should have access to which doors. It can be helpful to chart this out to ensure you have a clear picture of your staff's access structure.

How does it work?

It all starts with the Grand Master key. A Grand Master key will unlock any door in your master system family. It sits at the top tier and should be held by the fewest number of people. This is also the key first responders will need to access from your Knox Box in the event of an emergency.

The further a tier of keys is from the Grand Master, the less access the key holder will have. Let's take a look at the example below to simplify the principle. In this example, we have four tiers of access: the Grand Master, Master, Sub Master, and Individuals. Each key pictured in the tree can open locks keyed to its own tier as well as any locks keyed for tiers below it in the tree. The Grand Master can open every door in buildings A, B, C, and D. One tier below, we see Master Building A. That key would be able to open any lock in Building A but not buildings B-D. Below Master Building A is the Sub Master for Building A. The Sub Master can open any locks keyed to it, as well as all of the individual office locks on the tier beneath it. Lastly, we have the individual office keys. In this example, the individual office keys only open their designated door and any other locks you key for that tier.

Master Key systems can be customized to your needs. Whether you own rental homes and would like to avoid a massive key ring, or have an office building where certain doors are off-limits to some employees but not others, there is a workable solution for you. Whether you know exactly what you need or need some help to figure out your design, The Lock Shop is here to help you design and implement a system to fit your needs.