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Key Control Systems – What’s in a Name?

class-circleKey control and management systems are most easily defined as an orderly and secure solution for the management of keys. Due to their increasing popularity, key control systems are also known as automated key systems, electronic key systems, key management systems, computerized key systems, key bank systems, key storage systems, key tracking systems, and so on.

Regardless of the name given though, the automated systems address security and location issues related to the management and control of keys that need to be accounted for and secured when not in use. The systems are designed so that only pre-authorized users can access the cabinet and all transactions are recorded to provide an audit trail of who accessed the system and when.

Knowing who took which key and when is fundamental to a key control system. The audit trail provides critical data of every user who accesses the system and at any time security management can view who has keys out or who has had keys out and when. Systems can even be programmed to send e-mail alerts when keys are not returned on schedule. The additional use of software can provide more complete activity reports or sort the data based on defined criteria for more comprehensive analyzing and control.

From single key cabinets to those used for securing hundreds of keys, solutions for key security, key control and key management can be tailored to a variety of management and application needs. Their smart, tamper-proof designs help to reduce wall space and they can be optionally accessed with pass codes or biometrics.

Key control and management systems, by any name, are a valuable and reliable way to manage, control and secure physical keys.


About HandyTrac

For over 20 years HandyTrac has been the low-cost leader in multifamily and military housing key control; managing keys for more than 3,000,000 apartment homes throughout the country. Our cloud based systems offer instant access to archived reporting and provide the ability to manage your communities with a single login through your computer or smart phone.


This article was written by Key Control Systems

The ABCs of Key Control

keysIn developing a comprehensive physical security strategy, it’s important to include a key control plan as part of the overall security package. Key management systems can reinforce access control policies that are already in place and can also help to reduce the costs that are associated with lost keys or unmanaged access. It’s also important to know that it is never too late – or too early – to implement a key control and management plan as part of an overall physical security strategy. And if you’re not sure about how to proceed, the following three questions may provide the answers for you.

 

A. What is key control?

Key control and management systems are defined as an orderly and secure solution for addressing controlled usage and safekeeping of mechanical keys. The tamper-proof systems are designed so that only authorized users, using pre-programmed PIN codes, access cards or biometrics, can access keys and on-board advanced technology automatically records all access activity.

A basic system typically consists of a computerized key storage cabinet, a key locking mechanism and a tracking system. From this basic package, several options and design variations can be added to customize the solution and help protect the investment as needs grow and change. For networked installations, management software can also be included in the system. Permission levels can be established for each user and data can be monitored from any desktop connected to the network. Additionally, the software can run activity reports, sort based on different criteria and more.


B. Why do I need it?

Today’s key control and management systems have become a higher level management tool for effectively addressing the safety and security of building occupants and the security of the building assets. Knowing the identity of authorized key holders, which keys they have in their possession or have access to and when they were used is all essential information needed to help ensure a safe and secure environment. Further, technology developments and open protocols have made it possible to integrate key control with access control and other security systems as part of a facility’s networked security system. Now, a user who has taken a specific key can be denied egress from the facility until the key is returned – and selected management can be alerted via email if a key has not been returned on time.

Physical changes in the facility may also dictate the need for a key control system. For instance, a closet that may have once been used only for storing office supplies may now be used for holding more valuable items and should be locked. In some cases, convenience for the security staff can even be substantially increased. For example, changes implemented over the LAN are effective immediately which can help prevent incidents such as denying access to keys to recently terminated employees. The network connectivity of the system also allows management to remotely release any key, adding to the convenience and inherent safety provided by a key control and management solution.


C. Where can I use it?

Key management systems have become an operational necessity in environments such as correctional institutions, hospitals, car dealerships, property management, casinos and educational facilities to name just a few examples. It is also a critical function for anyone overseeing security at conference centers, government agencies, control rooms, automotive businesses and corporate buildings. However, key control can and should also be applied to businesses of all sizes because of the measurable benefits of enhanced security, convenience, increased staff productivity and accountability.

Most recently, key control systems’ functionality has been expanded to include custom modules to accommodate valuable items. Lockers, available in various sizes, can be used for storing small firearms, cell phones, 2-way radios and other valuables. Items can be returned to any open locker for convenience, and systems can be set up as a personal storage space for one or multiple users. These asset management systems can also be configured with additional security features to help maintain the integrity of the system. For example, where protection of asset lockers itself is mission-critical, installation of a remote access device provides an additional layer of protection by enabling the locker system to be placed in a secure room. A second individual’s PIN input and verification is then required in order for an authorized employee to access the contents of a locker.


About HandyTrac

The HandyTrac Key Control System provides apartment industry key control, as well as student housing and military housing with a secure, low cost, key control and key tracking system. Their patented online key management system is the first and only key control solution that ensures all of clients’ data are backed up with an audit trail.


This article was posted on SecurityToday.com by Fernando Pires.

HandyTrac Sells 10,000th Key-Control System

alvarezApril 19th, 2016 – After a record-breaking start to 2016, Steve Alvarez, Vice

President and Partner at HandyTrac Systems, LLC sold the company’s

10,000th key-control system. “As a Certified Apartment Property Supervisor,

Certified Manager of Housing, and multifamily veteran, Steve has played a

major role in HandyTrac’s success for over 20 years. We’d like to thank,

and congratulate him today on this milestone,” says John Lie-Nielsen, CEO of

HandyTrac.

Founded by apartment industry veterans, HandyTrac has utilized its industry experience and

insight to build a loyal base of customers who demand a high tech, yet affordable, method of

managing and safe-guarding their keys.

“Our success has been built upon our company mission: to create high quality products that

combine first-rate security with intuitive controls and cost efficiency,” says Lie-Nielsen. “Over

the years, through the new technologies we implement and the customer service we provide,

we’ve built a name that people know and trust.”


HandyTrac Touch: Key Control Will Never Feel The Same

Integrating secure and reliable biometric technology with an easy-to-use touch screen, the

HandyTrac Touch streamlines the key control process for both staff and managers alike.

Features include:

  • Biometric technology and a large display in one unit to offer the highest level of

    security, reporting, and flexibility.

  • Instant reports showing keys out, reasons, and other transactions completed by staff.

  • Ability to review individual work orders with one touch.

  • Visual codes that eliminate typing errors, while streamlining the entire process.

  • Integration of Android’s One Touch Building Pull:

    • Lists units for each building, allowing for quick and easy access when pulling

      multiple keys.

  • Easy to use and doesn’t require additional desktop or wall space.

  • Ability to use bar code employee badges if desired.

  • Built-in WiFi connection available.

With over 3 million keys secured, you can trust HandyTrac for your key control needs. For more

information, visit www.handytrac.com or call 800-665-9994.


About HandyTrac

The HandyTrac Key Control System provides apartment industry key control, as well as student

housing and military housing with a secure, low cost, key control and key tracking system. Their

patented online key management system is the first and only key control solution that ensures

all of clients’ data are backed up with an audit trail.

HandyTrac’s Key Control System Just Got Even Better

admin-ajaxIn 1995, HandyTrac CEO John Lie-Nielsen set out to secure his first key control contract with Alexander Properties in Atlanta for his start-up product, the HandyTrac Classic. Today, HandyTrac protects over 5 million units nationwide, and is the leading key management and control system in the multi-housing and commercial property industry.

After experiencing remarkable success with the HandyTrac Classic, Lie-Nielsen decided to take property security one step further with the HandyTrac Biometric; a system that enhances audit trail credibility and security while eliminating the frustration of lost or damaged employee badges. This system would quickly become the most trusted system in the country, but Lie-Nielsen still felt there was work to be done.

Introducing the HandyTrac Premium Touch. Integrating secure and reliable biometric technology with an easy-to-use touch screen, the HandyTrac Premium Touch streamlines the key control process for both staff and managers alike. With the HandyTrac Premium Touch, key control will never feel the same.

Features include:

– Biometric technology and a large display in one unit to offer the highest level of security,
reporting, and flexibility.

– Instant reports showing keys out, reasons, and other transactions completed by staff.

– Ability to review individual work orders with one touch.

– Visual codes that eliminate typing errors, while streamlining the entire process.

– Integration of Android’s One Touch Building Pull.

         – Lists units for each building, allowing for quick and easy access when pulling multiple keys.

– Easy to use and doesn’t require additional desktop or wall space.

– Ability to use bar code employee badges if desired.

– Built-in WiFi connection available.

With over 5 million keys secured, you can trust HandyTrac for your key control needs. For more information, visit www.handytrac.com or call 800-665-9994.