Master keying

Ideal for improving building management and key control

A master key system is ideal for improving building management and key control, striking the perfect balance between mechanical locks and access control. How does a master key work? All members of staff have one key that opens specific doors that are relevant to their roles, with the master key holder able to open all doors across a site. Master keying helps raise security standards, by giving employees different levels of security access. It significantly reduces the risk of unauthorised access and security breaches, by restricting access to only the areas that employees need on a day-to-day basis, making sure only the owner and high-level employees have access to certain areas.
It simplifies key management across a site too. For example, one member of staff is able to access multiple departments and facilities with a single key. There’s no need for employees to carry around a bunch of keys and, particularly important if there’s an incident or emergency, there’s no time wasted trying to find the right one. Also, the fact that one key can open a number of locks means less duplicates are needed. Should there be a security breach, it’s easy to track down who has access to a particular area and make sure the appropriate action is taken.

Different master key levels

Depending on your role in a business, you will have a key with a different level of access to others in a master key system. 
Below are the four main types of keys that would be used in a master key system, and what this will allow you to access.

Implementing a master key system

An effective master key system starts by understanding the size and complexity of the access and permission levels needed. All the different entry and exit points across a site that need keyed locks must be accounted for, and then a security hierarchy created to establish who has access to which areas. And remember, it’s just as critical to determine access restrictions as access permissions. Future proofing for expansion should also be considered. Master key systems are popular choices due to their convenience, affordability and because they offer an easy, scalable solution for a site. The chosen systems need to be flexible enough to incorporate potential extensions, so that additional user groups can be easily added. It’s also important to keep a record of who keys have been issued to, as well as details such as who is responsible for establishing any new access permissions.

The importance of patent protection

When choosing a master key system, there is often a lot of confusion around how you legally protect against unauthorised key copying, but this is achieved through patent protection. If keys are misplaced or duplicated without your knowledge, then a master key system could become compromised. For this reason, master key systems with a long-life patent are recommended for maximum protection. By the manufacturer providing control over key copying, the opportunity for illegal key cutting is limited. Patented features are much more difficult to duplicate too. If this was to happen, patent protection allows for legal action to be taken. 

In addition, the distribution of registered key blanks, which are only supplied through registered dealers to system owners, helps maintain a high level of security around master key suites. Patent protection is not to be confused with claims such as ‘lifelong trademark protection’; only patent protection provides the legal protection needed for a master key system. No patent means no protection. Our range of British designed master key systems provide market-leading patent protection, so you can be confident of a long-lasting solution.

To further understand the legal implications, we've created a new guide that reveals the truth about key copy protection.

Read our exclusive guide here

Master key systems you can trust

Taking all this into account, when it comes to selecting a master key system you want one that isn’t going to break the bank but doesn’t compromise on quality, either. You want cylinder upgrades or replacements – if needed – to be quick and easy to install. You want master key systems to meet the toughest requirements of standards such as EN 1303, and offer anti-pick, anti-drill and anti-pull protection. And you want a solution that’s built to last, which isn’t going to need replacing anytime soon. Fortunately for you, we have an extensive range of master key products to choose from. Master keying is at the very heart of what we offer – UNION has a longer history and heritage in master keying than anyone else in the industry. Our master keying systems also offer great value for money, while delivering an assured level of security and protection.
View our flagship master key platform KeyMASTER here

  • UNION keyPRIME™

    keyPRIME™ is a sleek, modern cylinder system designed with economy, safety, and security in mind for all modern building requirements. The cylinder platform boasts secure patented protection until 2036.

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  • KeyMASTER

    Our flagship master key platform a trusted serrated key technology along with superior, robust build quality. The range has secure patent protection until 2036 and is tested to the stringent requirements of EN 1303:2015.

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