In physical security, the term “access control” can have many interpretations or examples depending on the application. Access control can refer to a security officer standing guard in a lobby or a card swipe system that allows authorised personnel to enter an area. Other forms of access control include a man-trap door or a turnstile. What they all share, whether mechanical, manual or electronic in design, is the ability to limit entry to a particular area.

Many facilities continue to depend on physical keys, making a physical key management system essential for the safe keeping and storage of keys which are used to unlock doors, cabinets or other secure devices. Computerised key control and management systems are designed to securely and safely store keys and only release them to authorised users.

Each key is locked into place inside the key cabinet using a locking device which has an integrated chip, so a user can only remove a key to which he or she has permission to use. The other keys will remain locked into place when the user enters his or her access code or scans their card or fingerprint. In this way, the system automatically controls who is able to use which keys. The key control system assists the user further by lighting up the location of the key or keys he or she can remove once the code is entered and the key cabinet is opened.

For added protection, key control systems also react when something is wrong. An overdue key, an open door or even the misuse of the keypad will trigger an alarm and record the event in the log file. Integrated management software additionally enables management to further control the system and maximise its reporting and programmable access capabilities.

Australian Security Technology also offer key control using barcode technology, called AssetTracker. While the AssetTracker is used to track assets like tools, documents, safety equipment and the like, the system is also used to track keys in applications like real estate agencies, car yards and others.

This Australian-designed system uses scanners to book keys in and out of control points. An upgraded alert notification allows the user to enter alert times when keys are due back at a location. A popup alarm alerts the system when a key or set of keys is not returned.

Key control and management systems are a fundamental access control solution and a cost effective way to help ensure the security of any facility or area.