But all employees should know the basics about what to do in an emergency situation, whether it’s a fire, robbery or even something simple like getting locked out of the business.

If your staff members don’t know what to do in the latter situation, it’s probably because you didn’t train them or have a plan in place. Fortunately, we’re here to help. Here’s why your business needs a commercial lockout plan (and how to go about implementing one).

Why Your Business Needs a Commercial Lockout Plan

Running a business comes with its fair share of challenges, but one issue that often gets overlooked is a commercial lockout. Imagine your employees standing outside, unable to access the building and missing valuable work hours, disrupting your operations in the process. It’s a scenario no business owner wants to face, but it’s one that can easily be prevented.

Here are four of the biggest reasons why your business needs a commercial lockout plan:

1. Minimize downtime: Time is money. Lockouts lead to significant downtime, which not only affects productivity, but your bottom line as well. Employees need tasks to complete if they are going to be productive, and they can’t do it if they’re just standing around, waiting for help to arrive.
2. Maintain security: A commercial lockout is also a potential security hazard. Employees who are locked out may attempt to force entry, leading to damaged locks or doors, and increasing the risk of a security breach. Or, any potential criminals who witness the lockout may identify your business as a current or future target.
3. Ensure safety: Locked-out employees are compromised employees, especially if the lockout occurs late at night or in an area with high crime rates. At the very least, ensure your staff has a safe place to wait in the event of a lockout.
4. Boost employee confidence: Simply knowing there’s a plan in place for an unexpected situation can boost someone’s morale, and confidence in the person who designed it. This shows you’re proactive, and care about your employees’ wellbeing in addition to the smooth operation of your business.

How to Implement a Commercial Lockout Plan

Now you know why a commercial lockout plan is important. But how do you actually implement one? This is also a step-by-step process, and one that we can help, as Dallas-Fort Worth’s leading locksmithing and security company.

Here are our recommendations for implementing a commercial lockout plan:

1. Assess your current security measures: start by identifying potential weak points that could lead to a lockout. Are your locks old or prone to malfunction? Do you have a reliable system for managing keys? When was the last time you conducted a thorough assessment? All these are needed to understand what changes might be necessary.
2. Develop a key management system: business owners need to be organized, especially when it comes to keys. This includes knowing who has what keys, how many copies exist and where they are stored. Consider implementing a sign-in/sign-out procedure for keys, and regularly audit the process to ensure compliance.
3. Install keyless entry systems: one of the best ways to prevent lockouts is to invest in modern access control systems that feature keyless entry. This can look like key cards, biometric scanners or digital keypads. A commercial locksmith can help you find, and install the best one, enhancing your security in the process.
4. Create a lockout response plan: develop an outline that you can use to train employees, including emergency contacts, access procedures, and safety protocols. Be specific, clear and make sure it’s easily understandable.
5. Distribute, and train: make sure all employees are trained on how to follow the procedures you develop. This training should be part of the onboarding process for new hires, and revisited regularly with current staff. Conducting a drill every now and then wouldn’t hurt to ensure everyone is familiar with the steps they need to take.

Other Preparations to Consider

There are a few other ways you can better protect yourself from a commercial lockout beyond having a plan. For starters, parting with a reliable locksmith is crucial. A-1 Locksmith, for example, offers emergency services to ensure you’re never left in a bind. We can also help replace your locks or upgrade you to a master key system.

Regular maintenance is another key preparation, as locks, and security systems must be kept up with and updated regularly. Check them routinely to ensure everything is in working order. Also, have a backup solution in case anything is inoperable, such as a spare key in a secure location, or a lockbox with a code that only a few employees know about. Finally, effective communication is one of the best ways you can prepare your employees.

Don’t get caught off guard by a commercial lockout. With proper preparation like the tips outlined in this guide, you can prevent one from happening in the first place. To schedule a consultation with A-1 Locksmith so we can assess your current risk and recommend upgrades, stop by any of our Dallas-Fort Worth locations today or give us a call.

It doesn’t matter if you’re talking about baking or commercial security. For the latter, it can be difficult to tell what is adequate, and what isn’t. In today’s article, we cover a few commonly overlooked areas in a typical security audit and how to determine whether your facility would pass a commercial security inspection or not.

Entry Points

First and foremost, make sure any entry, and exit points are covered. This is where thieves will check first and they love it when you make things easy for them. Make sure all doors close, and lock properly, but also check other elements of your doors are in working order, such as hinges, frames, and even the door material itself. The solution that provides the most peace of mind for commercial businesses, however, is a master key system where you control access to every room in your facility (including who has control of what area). 

Windows

Next, something typically close to entry points: windows. Making sure your windows close, and lock properly is another item that should be on your commercial security checklist, as well as checking the hinges, and overall stability. Do all of your windows have screens? This is important whether the window is broken intentionally or not. There are other security upgrades you can place on your window, from commercial security systems with night visibility to motion tracking.

Storage Spaces

If your business has a warehouse, storage area, attic or basement, these are all areas that could attract criminals due to the fact they’re:

• Typically out of sight or with poor lighting
• Where the safe, and valuables are commonly stored
• In areas with minimal foot traffic and customers
• Not well maintained, and prone to excess wear/compromise

Basically, if there’s an area you don’t think about often (or at all), it’s a good idea to do a security check and make sure it isn’t the most vulnerable area of your facility.

Any Poorly Lit Area

Finally, do a sweep to make sure you have proper lighting, as any area in your commercial facility can be a security risk if it hides illegal activity. (Especially if said area is visible from the storefront or street.) Stairwells, clutter, boxes, and anything that causes a shadow is a vulnerable area to check, as are bathrooms, and any room with a public access point. At the end of the day, if you’re doing a regular audit or walkthrough, it will be easier to identify potential issues.

If you’d like to get professional feedback on your business security, contact A-1 Locksmith today at 972-284-7500.

If you own a business, however, it can be extremely beneficial to learn more terms related to commercial lock repair. What is a lock cylinder, for example? What are bump-proof locks all about? What does it really mean to “rekey” a building? Here are five common commercial lock repair terms that you might not know, along with their definitions.

1. Lock Cylinder

This is a pretty basic term that describes the entry point for the key in any lock — well, any lock that takes keys, of course. Lock cylinders have pins, which, when aligned by inserting the key, work to secure the lock and open it. The lock cylinder is housed in something called “lock housing.” But, basically, the lock cylinder is the main component of any key lock.

2. Rekeying

You might already know that rekeying involves making new keys for a lock. More specifically, rekeying is the process of making the lock cylinder (as mentioned above) work with a new key. How does this work, exactly? It’s all about the pins. A commercial rekeying locksmith will replace old pins with new pins that featuring a different length and go with different keys. The old key will no longer work with a rekeyed lock because the pins have been changed.

3. Bump-Proof Locks

We’ve written on the topic of “bump-proof locks” before, but in case you didn’t know, “bumping” is a technique that thieves use to bypass a lock without the need for advanced tools. It’s becoming more, and more popular, which is why experts in the locksmithing industry developed bump-proof locks to combat it. These locks feature a high-security design that cannot be picked or bumped open.

4. Keyway

The “keyway” is basically how your key is cut — specifically, how the shaft of the key is cut. The keyway determines whether a key is compatible with a lock. Keyways can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer and from lock to lock. There are interchangeable keyways, and those that are not. It’s best to consult with a commercial locksmith if you’re having trouble with finding out which keys are compatible with which locks at your facility.

5. DND

Here’s an easy one: DND means “do not duplicate.” If this is on a key, it means the owner did not want someone to make another copy of the key. Although, this is mostly a warning for locksmiths, and doesn’t guarantee the key won’t be duplicated. You can, however, design certain keys with today’s technology so that it’s not possible to duplicate them.

If you’re in need of commercial lock services, give the A-1 Locksmith team a call today at 972-284-7500.

Today, we’re going to cover the latter scenario. By having a commercial rekeying company install “bump-proof” locks, you can avoid becoming the latest victim of this technique.

What Is ‘Bumping?’

First, a little more about what “bumping” is exactly, and how burglars use it. They say that bumping is so easy, a child could do it — about 9 out of every 10 locks in American houses are susceptible to it. But it wasn’t always that way. Bumping originated as a technique that allowed locksmiths to access locks when they didn’t have a key. It involves taking a specially cut “bump key,” inserting it into the keyhole, and using a screwdriver or other similar object to “bump” or tap the key until the pins align and the lock opens. There’s a little technique involved, but thanks to the Internet, more, and more thieves are learning about it and using it.

What Are ‘Bump-Proof’ Locks?

Fortunately, just as bumping has increased, so has the rise of “bump-proof” locks. These types of locks prevent the bumping process by adding a secondary locking system on the side of the key that prevents access from a single “bump key.” To get specific, while bumping aligns the pins in a keyhole by the key user jumping the shear line, and using a little torque, bump-proof locks involves lifting and rotating additional pins that a bump key can’t open. Put simply, these locks go a long way toward increasing the safety of your home.

Installing ‘Bump-Proof’ Locks

As with many household projects, you can try to find a YouTube video and install bump-proof locks yourself. Or, you could trust a local locksmithing company to do it right the first time. We’re talking about your home’s security, however. Do you really want to trust the safety of your family, and belongings to a DIY project? Professional locksmiths like the team at A-1 Locksmith have years of experience changing out locks, safes, security systems, and more. Furthermore, they’re licensed to operate as professional locksmiths, and take customer satisfaction very seriously.

We’re here to help you better understand bumping and your options for avoiding it. Call us today at 972-284-7500 to discuss installing high-security locks in your home.

While keyless locks are experiencing a surge in popularity, that doesn’t necessarily make them any better or safer than a mechanical lock. The right lock for your home depends on personal preference, and a few other factors. Let’s take a look at how mechanical locks, and keyless locks, and which is safer (if any).

About Mechanical Locks

Mechanical locks have been around since the 1800s. They’re reliable, secure, and most homes have them. They vary in type, size, look and security level. Mechanical locks function by keeping a door closed until a mechanism is activated, such as a knob or level. Most mechanical locks require a key to open as well. One great thing about mechanical locks is that a locksmith can easily rekey them or install new mechanical locks. Despite their history, the interest in keyless or “smart” locks is increasing.

About Keyless Locks

Smart locks are usually keyless, and based on electronics. As such, they keep doors closed until a code, biometric input or other device unlocks them. The demand for smart locks is projected to exceed 135 million units by 2024, according to a market research report by Grand View Research. As demand increases, so does an investment in making the technology better. But there’s still room for improvement.

Here’s what Jeremiah Grossman, Chief of Security Strategy at cybersecurity firm SentinelOne, had to say about smart locks:

“Would I personally entrust the security of my home to (a smart lock)? Not at the moment, but in the future as the devices get better and more secure I might trust them more. Should others use them? Sure, depending on their living situation…”

Which Is Safer?

Whether mechanical locks or keyless locks are safer is a bit of a subjective topic. Both provide extra security, but are prone to potential issues. In the end, it’s all about what is more important to you: convenience or security? Keyless locks are definitely convenient and popular, but there are potential vulnerabilities as it’s a more infant category. Mechanical locks may be more secure, but not as convenient. A more important decision is which locksmith you choose for lock repairs, and installation. The best locksmith will ensure you have the right lock to meet your needs, and give you peace of mind.

If you’d like a consultation about which type lock is better for your home, and situation, give the A-1 Locksmith team a call today at 972-284-7500. 

With all that being said, as an owner or operator of a business you are also probably short on the time necessary to install, manage, and maintain these much-needed systems on your own.  This is where the services of a quality locksmith, such as those available at A-1 Locksmith, can be beneficial whether in implementation or upkeep.  Here we break down some of the most common commercial security hardware solutions, and how they can help secure your business interests.

The Critical Nature of Doors

Doors may be an afterthought to some business owners/managers, but whether catering to customers or allowing employees on site, doors are critical to a business’s day-to-day operations.  These entryways are also one of the biggest areas of vulnerability to commercial ventures.  Multiple users of doors, and facilities necessitate the need for handing out keys, keycode, and fobs, presenting a host of security risks with employee turnover.  Interchangeable core door locks are a commercial business owner’s dream solution to security, providing new, secure access with only a few minutes of installation into existing door hardware.

For external rear doors, all businesses can benefit from reliable, tried-and-true door hardware such as push bars for ease of exit.  With the ability to open with little effort, however, comes to necessity of security to ensure this easy access point for potential intruders is shut.  This is where secure top-jamb closers that safely, and reliably force open doors shut, come in handy.

Monitoring, Remote Access, and More

Depending on the size, and scope of your enterprise, your commercial business may also benefit from other advanced security systems, and protocols.  Remote access gives business, and property owners the benefit to arm, disarm or confirm the status of electronic security systems, all from the comforts of home or while on the go.  Other monitoring systems such as exterior or interior camera or monitoring can allow peace of mind that your property is protected, and can also provide valuable back-up for employees in need of safety, security, and accountability.

Speaking of technology, commercial safety has come a long way from your standard lock-and-key set.  Digital access codes with electronic locking mechanisms are a great way to monitor individual comings, and goings, and can also allow owners to quickly activate or deactivate individual codes, ensuring secure access to buildings, and premises.  Asset tracking, biometric security systems, fire detection, intrusion monitoring and protection and more are all available in more advanced, easy to access systems than ever before, meaning that business owners can rest assured their physical inventory, property, and employees are safe at all times.

Consult with a Qualified Locksmith

If your commercial property or business is in need of these services or if you’d like a no-cost consultation regarding the available options for your individual property needs, call A-1 Locksmith today.  Our experienced, and professionally licensed locksmiths are experts in tailoring security solutions for a variety of clients.  With A-1 Locksmith, you’ll know that your business assets are always secure, allowing you to focus on the things that really matter such as growing your business enterprise.

The same can also be said for having a quality locksmith on call.  An experienced locksmith, such as one of the professionals with A-1 Locksmith, provide more than just lock changes, and can be a great, time, and stress-saving ally for property managers of all portfolio sizes.

Locks do More Than Secure Your Properties

When it comes to rekey services, having a locksmith on call does more than just protect the interior of your property.  Locksmith’s also help reduce property manager and property owner liability by assisting with compliance with various state, and local ordinances.  Changing the locks between tenants or at the request of existing tenants is an essential element to protecting your clients, and your bottom line.

Pools, Gyms, Mailboxes, and More

Re-keying door locks isn’t the only way having a locksmith on call can help busy property managers.  Multi-unit residences typically have a variety of secured buildings, and structures, each with their own unique locking mechanisms.  From securing the pool gate for both safety, compliance, and liability reasons, to maintaining complicated electronic key systems on garages, laundry rooms, gym facilities, and more, companies such as A-1 Locksmith have the resources, and skill necessary to maintain a variety of device types.  These facilities house valuable property in need of safekeeping and protecting the security of the various buildings also helps residents feel safe, and secure, and property.

Property managers, tenants or management staff lead increasingly busy, modern lives.  Professional locksmiths will also track and log security, and lock maintenance records, and keep records of the key systems for your individual properties, ensuring they have the right tools for the job the first time they make a service call.  No more rescheduled visits or clearing up your calendar for bumbling companies that show up only to realize they don’t have the parts they need to provide immediate, timely service.

A Dedicated Locksmith Service for Peace of Mind

Having a dedicated locksmith with the ability to provide rapid, 24/7 emergency, and on-call service, is a critical tool in the successful property manager’s arsenal.  A-1 Locksmith does more than rekey locks after a tenant change.  Our trained, licensed, and bonded professionals help protect property managers by reducing risk of loss of valuable common area property, and help eliminate liability from other secure areas such as pools, and playgrounds that have complex regulations from state, and local authorities.  If you’re a property manager and want to discover just how our services can save you time, money, and hassle, call A-1 Locksmith for a free consultation regarding your security needs.

Helping Commercial Businesses Meet Texas Building Codes

A violation of building codes can be time-consuming and costly, and avoiding a violation is always ideal. What’s more, a violation of building codes may also be dangerous, putting consumers, and employees at risk.

For example, Texas Local Government Code Section 232.062, adopted from International Fire Code, as it pertains to means of egress, reads that certain doors may not be locked, and that certain lock types are forbidden, including a lock that would prevent use of operation with certain exceptions. A failure to follow this code could put all of those within the building in danger in the event that a fire was to occur.

A commercial locksmith can help to ensure that your business is up to code via the installation of exit panic bars, which are often seen in buildings accompanied with a sign reading that the door is to remain closed, and that it is an ‘exit only.’ Panic bars provide a means of egress in the event of an emergency, while also preventing indoor access from the outside, thereby providing internal security as well. Exit devices such as panic bars can even be used in the dark, and allow disabled persons, and children the ability to safely exit the building.

Ensure Your Business is Up to Code Today

There is nothing worse than being hit with a fine because your business is not up to code, and didn’t take necessary precautions. To ensure that you are operating within the law and not putting anyone’s safety in jeopardy, call the commercial locksmiths at A-1 Locksmith today. We can assist commercial businesses as large as Fortune 500 companies, as well as local mom-and-pop shops. We’re just a phone call away, so reach out to us today to learn more about why we’re the best in the business.

What Each Type of Locksmith Does

A residential locksmith can do more than just help you enter your home if you’ve locked yourself out; a residential locksmith can also help you to assess your home’s security, and provide tips for upgrading your locks.

An automotive locksmith, on the other hand, specifically deals with the locks of cars. Automotive locksmiths can create, and replace keys, extract a broken key from a door or ignition, and help you enter your car if you’re locked out.

Finally, a commercial locksmith specializes in lock systems for commercial properties, and businesses. Some commercial locksmith services are in regards to:

• Commercial safes, and vaults;
• Panic bars;
• Automatic doors;
• Filing cabinets; and
• Master key systems.

Why It Is Important to Call the Right Type of Locksmith for the Job

Calling any old locksmith when you have a very specific need isn’t advised. In fact, some locksmiths may try to fool you into believing that they have the skill set necessary to get a locksmith job done when really they are just hoping to make money fast. To ensure that you are not taken advantage of, it is within your interest to only hire a locksmith who is licensed, insured, and bonded. Before calling the locksmith out to your house, car, or business, ask what they specialize in – it would waste time, and money to call an automotive locksmith for a commercial job, or visa versa.

Serving Commercial Businesses in Texas

At A-1 Locksmith, our locksmiths are trained in automotive, residential, and commercial locksmith skills. When your commercial business is facing a security issue, do not waste time searching for a commercial locksmith near you; instead, call A-1 Locksmith for fast and friendly service that you can count on. With more than 50 service technicians on the road at any given time, we are ready to serve you. Call us now for a free quote.

But when considering the business’ future, many owners often overlook the importance of consulting with an expert who can help ensure the safety of the company’s physical assets; specifically, a locksmith. A-1 Locksmith teams with businesses large, and small to be a critical partner in the development of their enterprise. While the topic of a locksmith often comes up on an as-needed basis it is a good idea to be prepared for this inevitable need, and have an established partnership with a local commercial locksmith.

Protecting Your Physical Location

In addition to offering emergency services for those locked out of their homes, cars, or businesses, locksmiths offer a variety of other forms of assistance that may significantly improve the safety of your business’ most prized assets. For one, a trained locksmith can recommend, and provide you with a high-quality safe to store your most precious valuables, either on-site, or in another location. Furthermore, locksmiths are often experts on the topic of security systems; as such, if you have other valuable assets, within your business’ building, you can turn to a trained locksmith who can suggest a lock and security system that will provide you with unparalleled protection. Of course, the security system may offer the traditional experience of a lock-and-key mechanism; or, if you have multiple visitors entering and exiting throughout the day, your locksmith can help you select a security access control system using a swipe-card instead.

Access control, CCTV, exit alarms, and lockouts are just a fraction of the services a commercial locksmith can perform for your business. Indeed, a good commercial locksmith can be one of your business’ most important allies.

Avoiding Scams in the Future

In addition to the aforementioned benefits offered by conducting business with a reputable Dallas/Fort Worth area commercial locksmith, developing a relationship with such a security professional can help ensure that you avoid falling prey to any scams in the future, should you need emergency services.

Imagine, for example, a situation in which you are locked out of your building, or cannot find the keys to the safe you recently installed. And further, imagine that up until this point, you have not had any contact with a professional locksmith. Here, you are faced with the prospect of calling a stranger to come to your building and render services, which may often times be sensitive to your business. Considering that some business locations may house thousands or even millions of dollars worth of assets it is imperative that you have a trusted, bonded, and insured locksmith to better safeguard your interests.

Opposed to scrambling to find a commercial locksmith in an emergency situation, we invite you to contact us at A-1 Locksmith for all of your commercial locksmith needs. We offer both preventative, and emergency services for businesses in the Dallas area, and have been doing, so for over 60 years. Whether you’re locked out of your business, need lock rekeying or replacement or you need the best security system on the market, don’t hesitate to call.