Should your business still be using physical keys?

As far back as the ancient Egyptians, humans have used physical keys to safely secure their belongings and their property. Using falling pins to control the movement of a security bolt and a key to free it, the Egyptians were among the first to recognise the value of lock and key systems. Improved upon by the Romans, it wasn’t until the 19^th century and the industrial revolution that locks and keys became a safe way of securing anything of importance with improved resistance to fire, chemicals, explosives and brute force.

However, as a means of security, physical keys will always remain flawed in that they can be easily copied or given to someone who you do not want to have them – a common headache for business owners. This is why in recent years we have witnessed a huge growth in the number of businesses turning to other means of access control.

In the motoring sector, many of today’s manufacturers are turning to electronic devices as a means of unlocking and even starting the engine of their cars. At present more than 80% of vehicles are accessed with some kind of electronic key fob.

The hotel industry has also begun to take note of the improved security and convenience of electronic access control with the large majority of hotels now providing guests with a key fob or card rather than a physical key which can be copied and is expensive to replace. It also provides businesses with an easy way to cut down on bills as the card has to be inserted in a holder to be triggered and cuts out as soon as it is removed – when the guest leaves the room.

Here at Gateway Automation we offer a range of secure access control equipment to businesses and individuals to protect their buildings and assets. These include push button access controls, biometric fingerprint readers, keypads, proximity devices and other exciting technology.

Whereas keys can be easily copied, our technology provides a strong barrier against unauthorised access by eliminating the need for physical keys.

Gateway Automation can provide free, no obligation quotes and feasibility surveys for your premises. To get us to assess your security requirements, please contact us here.