Running a business means having proper security in place — the future of your business and the safety of your employees depends on it. Security is one area where you definitely don’t want to cut corners. Iit may save money in the short term but have devastating consequences to your business in the future. Commercial locksmith services are a key component of keeping your business safe and secure.
When there’s a breach to security, you’ll of course need to have your locks changed immediately to reduce your risk of further damage, but what about when there’s no immediate need? Should you still change them? Yes! All businesses need to change their locks with relative consistency. But how often you’ll need commercial lock replacement can range anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, depending on various factors like the size of your business, the amount of valuables on your property, and the number of employees you have. In most cases, you’ll want to find trusted commercial locksmith services that can ensure locks are rekeyed and/or installed properly and provide reliable security. You may even be better off by installing automatic or electronics lock systems.
In this article, we’ll explain not only how often a business needs to change their locks but how you can make your business more secure and help avoid emergency security threats all year long.
Watch Out for Employees Who Can Reduce the Level of Security in the Office
Every business owner and employee wants a safe working environment, and that safety goes beyond working with dangerous machines or chemicals. By identifying employees who aren’t following safety protocols, who have negative changes in behavior, or aren’t getting along with other employees, you can intervene before a security issue develops. You’ll also be aware and ready to make security changes should they be asked to leave. These emergency situations will require rekeying, changing codes, or even electronic door lock repair depending on the level of security breach or damage. If you don’t have electronic locks, a certified locksmith can provide digital door lock installation services. These types of locks can eliminate the need for rekeying or changing locks, and they can be more secure due to the fact that they can’t be picked or “bumped”.
Use Only British Standard Locks for Commercial Buildings
Not all locks are thief-resistant, no matter how often you change or rekey them. If you don’t have electronic locks, the British Standards Institute (BSI) recommends a standard lock called the BS3621. Some insurance companies even require that your door locks are fitted to BS 3621 British Standard. When you decide to do a commercial lock change, you should only install locks that meet this standard. A qualified, trust locksmith company who does commercial door lock installation will install the recommended locks for ultimate safety.
How do you know if the locks you have are British Standard locks? One way is to look for the British Standard Kitemark (BSI) on the faceplate of the lock, which is the metal portion that’s viewable when you open the door. You should see the BS3621 stamped on the faceplate. If you can’t find it or aren’t sure, call a commercial locksmith to verify you have what you need or change your locks.
Some businesses have sliding glass doors that lead to a patio or even an office space. These doors also require British standard locks. You’ll want to find a locksmith for sliding glass doors to ensure they’re up to code and installed correctly.
Make Sure You Have a Secure Perimeter
Security threats aren’t the same for every business, and the outside of your building and the perimeter around it can make or break your security. The outside perimeter can be affected by lack of light, landscaping or fencing that blocks the view of entry points, and even cracked windows, roof, or doors. But if you don’t know what type of threats you’re susceptible to, it’s difficult to put the right security measures in place. An independent security assessment by a commercial locksmith will look at your outside perimeter, as well as how many people you have entering and leaving, how many valuable items you have, and the setup of your property.
It may be necessary to add additional outdoor lighting, perhaps even motion sensored. Some businesses choose to also install cameras or add security signs to deter burglars. Locks on doors that can be easily picked should be changed to higher security locks — including digital when relevant. Look for a locksmith for a digital lock as well as have an emergency commercial locksmith that you trust so you can call right away if there’s a concern. You don’t want to have to shop around when in a crisis.
Changing Your Locks Is Important — So Is Putting Other Security Measures in Place
Assessing your business’s security measures is vital. Even one break-in can cause serious damage, and it’s just not worth risking your financial security and the safety of your employees. Speak with a commercial locksmith to get a full safety assessment and rekey your locks on a schedule that fits your particular needs.