As a business owner, you understand the importance of having a high-security lock on every external door. They are also necessary on internal doors which lead to rooms where sensitive data or valuable equipment are stored. However, criminals are adept at breaching security, so the technology of commercial locks is constantly advancing. If you’re concerned that your current arrangements may not give you maximum protection, then there are several options for increasing it without replacing doors and changing your entire security system.

1. Retrofits

This is a really cost-effective way to give extra capability to your high security lock. Most manufacturers offer simple methods of upgrading the lock trim without replacing the whole lockset. It makes it possible to retrofit features like high-visibility status indicators on 20-year-old locks without changing the door preparation. They’re also designed to be installed without leaving any visible holes. In many cases, you can retain your existing locks, provided that they meet the standards of modern security.

2. Patented Key Control

Patented keys are excellent for limiting authorized access and the good news is that you don’t need to fit an entirely new lock to use them. Existing locks can be reconfigured so that only new keys will open them. Patented keys come with a key-control agreement from the manufacturer and are protected by Federal Utility Patent, which severely limits the possibility of anyone being able to get illegal copies made.

Once you’ve got patented keys, it’s your responsibility to manage access to them, of course, but provided that their use is restricted to trusted employees and adequate security measures are in place, you can be confident that your high security just got higher.

3. Smart Lock

Although it’s one of the more expensive options, a smart lock removes all the worries about key security. They are designed to work with voice assistants, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Voice and even face recognition smart locks are available, making them even more secure than touch pad locks. Another common feature is a facility to grant access privileges to specific people. You’ll have to be organized and make sure that all apps are up to date, passwords are protected and the PIN numbers used to unlock via voice assistants are not shared with unauthorized personnel, but it’s not complicated to add them to your routine admin.

4. Force-Resistant High Security Lock

Again this means changing your locking system but if you are worried about break-ins or vandalism – particularly if you have external doors which are concealed from public view – they’re ideal. They’re built to withstand the kind of force criminals use to break weaker locks. You should look for locks that have been tested and certified to ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 standards.

5. Go Hands-Free

We’ve all become used to hands-free washrooms, which use sensors to turn on taps, dispense soap and activate hand-driers. They’re convenient, super-hygienic alternatives to manual controls and the same goes for locks with hands-free operation. They don’t usually have their own security rating since they are controls rather than locks, but used in conjunction with a high quality lock, they make your premises secure but accessible.