ABS Design - Master Key Systems

DESIGN

ABS High Security Locking

Welcome to ABS, the home of high security locking systems.

For over 40 years we have been supplying high security locking solutions to the UK, Eire, Mainland Europe and the Middle East. During this time, we have amassed a great wealth of experience in the understanding of client & customer needs and expectations.

Residential, Commercial, and Industrial requirements are at the core of what we do, and with client demands differing between business sectors; our commitment to total customer satisfaction remains equal to all.

Building and site security are often areas of attention which can have many facets and unique requirements. An ABS Master-Key System is a recognised and proven way to address controlled access management of people, whilst delivering building/site security.

An ABS Master Key System is a physical layer of security which can operate as your main access management system or complement other security arrangements which may be installed or be in consideration for implementation. An ABS Master-Key System can simplify the security management of your building/site.

ABS Design Patent Protected Security.

ABS Design is a precision engineered high security locking system, which can meet the needs of commercial clients who need a high performing, reliable, and secure Master Key System.

Accredited to EN1303:2015, grade 6 key security, the highest accreditation possible, ABS Design offers an extensive range of commercial

Key Recognition

Keys can be identified using any of 10 coloured pips which locate in the key head.

locking solutions developed to meet the security requirements within a clients scope.

The unique ABS Design system incorporates patented technology in both the key and the cylinder to reduce the risk of unauthorised key duplication, making it a perfect specification for a Master Key System.

Patented Technology

The key incorporates a patented feature to prevent unauthorised key duplication.

Distinctive Key Design

The unique key head design is quick and easy to identify within a bunch of keys.

Key Management

Every cylinder and key is laser etched with a unique MKS reference and differ number.

Robust Key

Double sided key blade manufactured from Nickel Silver, with durable nylon key head.

What is a Master Key System?

A Master Key System is the name given to a group of locks which can be accessed by keys in accordance with the requirements for a building and/or site and usually designed in consultation with the Master Key System client.

So what does this mean?

If we take the example of a school and think of it in its most simplistic form, we can demonstrate the basics of a Master Key System.

In this scenario, we will say that the school has a Head of School and Teaching Staff, a Staff Room, a Languages Department, a Maths Department, a Science Department, and a History Departmenteach department has its own classrooms and there is a Head of School Office.

Each head of department can have a key which will only open their own office and the classrooms within their department; each classroom in the department has its own key too. A key from a different department or classroom will not open a lock in any other location except that to which it is designated.

Meanwhile, all teaching staff keys can open the staff room in addition to the classrooms which they have been assigned, whilst the head of school has a key which opens every door in every department, as well as their own office.

The Head of School would have a ‘Master Key’ which opens all locks.

The Head of each Department would have a ‘Department Key’ which would open all locks within their own department.

The Teaching Staff would have a ‘Classroom Key’ which would only open their own classroom(s).

All keys would open the staff room.

It should be noted that the requirements in the education sector are often more detailed and considered than this example.

An ABS Master Key System can be designed to meet the specific needs of the client, allowing them to have a system which fits with their building/site requirement, rather than make their building/site fit the Master-Key System.

Types of Master Key System

Traditionally Master-Key Systems are created using a hierarchy-based logic, something which is proven to be robust and reliable. Many of the systems we supply use this structure in their designs, although other solutions are provided too. It should be noted that each and every ABS Master Key System is unique and can be tailored to meet client specific needs.

The following pages present an overview of different system types in a rudimentary format to show a variety of designs which can be considered. Your ABS Security Specialist can assist you during, and throughout the planning process.

ABS Master Key System

Security with convenience.

A popular and practical system which allows for easy management of locks.

For example; individual dwellings, garages, sites, gates etc. can have their own dedicated key(s), with the convenience of a Master Key (MK) which can open all locks.

The application for this system is open-ended; rental properties, night security services, site storage facilities, school lockers are a small sample selection which demonstrates the adaptability of this Master Key System.

ABS Grand Master Key System

Ideal for multi-department organisational control.

Suitable for all applications, from single buildings to large multi-site global organisations, this system offers exceptional key management with unrivalled flexibility.

This multi-tier structure offers system depth and breadth allowing clients to manage access permissions aligned to their requirements.

A Grand Master Key System is scalable and expansive, making it an ideal solution for applications where immediate and long term needs can be considered.

Note: The example below presents a simple Grand Master, Sub Master and Differ system. This type of system can operate across numerous buildings, sites and geographical territories should it be needed.

Grand Master Key (GMK) Opens all locks in the Master Key Suite.

ABS Central Locking System

Designed for multi-occupancy buildings.

This type of system is often specified for privately owned multi-apartment living.

In this scenario each individual apartment key will open its own door(s), which can include patio/ balcony doors, garage access, safe-room etc., plus any communal areas required.

Typical communal areas can include the car park, gardens, refuse storage etc.

For sites where post boxes are located inside the main front entrance, postal operatives can be supplied with a key to manage deliveries.

Operated by all Apartment keys.

Communal Entrance(s) / Communal Areas

Key 1 Opens Apartment 1

Key 2 Opens Apartment 2

Key 3 Opens Apartment 3

Key 4 Opens Apartment 4

Key 5 Opens Apartment 5

ABS Master Key System for HMO Property Convenience for shared accommodation.

For landlords who manage HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation) this system provides access management for the tenants with individual keys for their own rooms yet allowing access through the main entry door(s) to the property. The landlord can access the common areas which are not in the bedroom areas, for example,

kitchen, lounge, toilet, bathroom, garden by using their Master Key; this may be for annual inspection, routine or essential maintenance, or rental collection etc.

Note: The landlords key will access the tenants rooms; however, this should only occur when in accordance with government guidance regarding tenant rights.

Communal Entrance(s)

ABS Key User System

Key specific access management.

With the change in working environments becoming more common, a different solution to a hierarchy-based Master-Key System may be required.

An alternative is a Key User System which allows for a design to be created around the specific key holders.

Once the lock locations have been identified and key holders have been agreed; the access permissions can be defined.

This free-form approach to planning is ideal for applications where access permissions are unlikely to change.

Master Key System for the Homeowner

Reducing risk whilst improving wellbeing

The requirements we have from our home can change, and with it, our need to adapt too.

Households can have areas which need to be restricted for many different reasons, be they due to safety, sensitivity and/or security or family dynamic.

A home gym, a hobby room, a garage/workshop or perhaps a home office, these are areas which can be included within a Home Master Key System.

Introducing a Master Key System to your home reduces the cost and amount of keys required, as each key holder can hold just one key.

Additional doors included in this example system:

Conservatory

Summer House

Shed Workshop

Specifying the right system

There is a system for you, however, as every system we create is customer/client specific, choosing the right system to meet your needs should be a considered and informed process to ensure complete satisfaction.

To achieve this, a needs analysis should be conducted to understand the full requirement from the Master Key System in relation to your building/site security and the controlled access management of people.

Providing security with convenience is at the centre of a Master Key System, and as such, there is no limit to what you can include within your system. All door types, cupboards, cabinets, gates, shutters, equipment, and portable items can be secured using a comprehensive range of locking products including padlocks and cam locks.

It is reasonable for you to consider future expansion for your Master Key System, be it building/ site development, inclusion of additional locations, and building/site reconfigurations to share a few examples.

Your ABS Security Specialist can help guide you through the system specification process.

Master Key System Security

A Master Key System, like any security arrangement should be an informed consideration to include immediate and future needs, how and when the system will be implemented & installed, and by whom the system will be serviced thereafter.

One area which should be high on the ‘needs list’ is that of system security. Master Key System security can be split into three clear areas, physical security, key security, and data management & security.

These areas should be understood during the specification process, so that the chosen Master Key System meets client needs and expectations.

Physical Security

ABS Design cylinders and padlocks feature attack resistant technology and innovations* to increase the level of protection for your building/ site. Accredited to the latest standards, ABS Design products combine performance with security .

Consideration should be given to perimeter doors where the level of physical security provided by the cylinder should be optimised. ABS Master Key Systems can incorporate door cylinders accredited to TS007 3 Star, SS312 Diamond, and TS007 1 Star.

Key Security (Key Copy Protection)

One of the most popular misrepresentations with Master Key Systems is that of key copy protection. There are many phrases and terminology which are used to present Master Key Systems which offer a level of protection which is greater than the reality. Some of these claims use trademark as a level of protection, others use key registration, or key restriction in their claims, all of which are misleading.

The Door and Hardware Federation (DHF) produce a publication which explains the issues around misrepresentation regarding key copy protection, and how patent protection is the only legal option should key security be your requirement.

It should be noted that a Master Key System which does not have authentic key copy protection is not considered a secure system. Keys for these systems could be legally reproduced with or without the system owners knowledge, which in turn can significantly increase the risk of a security compromise.

At ABS we offer secure Master Key Systems with the benefit of patent protection, your assurance of system security and reduced risk of unauthorised key duplication. Your ABS Security Specialist is your support for additional keys, which are supplied in accordance with the ABS Master Key System key duplication security protocol.

Data Management

A Master Key System requires data management. Both the client and the system provider should share a common language and business behaviour in relation to the data required to ensure long life Master Key System performance. These records can contain details of lock locations, key permissions, dates of key/lock issuance, service activities, and maybe even personnel names.

Only trusted personnel from the Master Key System owner should be authorised to arrange procurement of additional keys/locks and/or the servicing/maintenance of their system.

Records will be maintained by your ABS Security Specialist, and will be kept in a secure environment to safeguard against Master Key System compromise.

Data Security

Data protection and security has become a constant in our lives, and the data security of a Master Key System can be addressed too.

With increasing pressures put upon businesses around GDPR and the need to protect sensitive data, a Master Key System can be supplied in accordance with TS17814.

TS17814 is a standard which has been published to provide guidance to providers, installers and users of Master Key Systems. Compliance with this standard ensures that the data required to complete all the activities in the supply, installation, maintenance and servicing of a Master Key System maintains the systems integrity.

Each party involved in the process will accept that by breaking or failing to comply with the obligations to which they have agreed (as per the project requirements and that of the sub-sections within Section 4 of TS 17814), may result in the compromise of the entire Master Key System and any liability that may result.

When planning a Master Key System in accordance with the guidance contained within TS17814, it is important to remove all references which can be related to personnel who will be users of the Master Key System. Further security and best practice can be achieved by removing reference from keys which relate to the keys function, for example, Grand Master Key, Accounts Office, Perimeter Doors etc.

Your ABS Security Specialist can provide you with separate independent guides on How To Obtain Key Copy Protection, and Master Key System Data Protection.

Planning a Master Key System

Conducting a needs analysis to determine which areas should be included in a Master Key System is a good starting point. The needs could be prioritised in accordance with your specific requirement, maybe by site location, by areas of vulnerability, by doors of high sensitivity etc.

During the planning process, a site survey can be helpful as locking mechanisms and functions can vary considerably depending on their application, therefore, this is a good opportunity to identify any special requirements.

Once this has been assessed and defined, identifying the keys which will be required should now be considered, including any locations which may be for future inclusion, to which these keys should operate. Colour-coding of keys is a good option to define geographical or site locations, or level of key access, for example, offices, factory, laboratory etc.

Your ABS Security Specialist can assist in this process and give advice regarding the creation of the key access/locking plan.

Once the plan is agreed, consideration should be given to how the Master Key System will be implemented.

Implementation of your System

Master Key Systems consist of keys and locks, and dependent on the system they can contain a few keys/locks or thousands of keys/locks. The procurement of a Master Key System often falls into two categories; project-driven and planned maintenance/refurbishment.

Project-driven Master Key Systems usually include all doors/applications and keys which are to be included in the system. These are often, but not exclusively new build projects. Once installed, future servicing and maintenance can be supported by your ABS Security Specialist

Planned Maintenance/Refurbishment Master Key Systems are like project driven systems, with the main difference being that they may be part of a building/site, possibly a floor, area, or location which has been identified for inclusion in a Master Key System. This may be a brand-new system, or an extension to an existing installation. These systems can be implemented in line with budget availability.

It is possible to implement a Master Key System as part of unexpected & unplanned maintenance. In this scenario, master-keyed locks are installed as and when existing site locks fail; leading to the creation of a Master Key System. Keys can be issued to personnel in advance, or when locks are installed.

The final part of the implementation plan is to determine who will supply and install the Master Key System?

ABS Security Specialist upgrading door with ABS Design Mortice cylinder featuring high security rosette.

Installation of a Master Key System

We recommend that ABS Master Key Systems are installed by ABS Security Specialists, due to their expertise and proficiency regarding lock installation, key system management, key duplication service and whole life Master Key System service support.

It is acknowledged that installation may be conducted by third party providers or by site owners themselves.

Whichever option is considered, it is important that the installation process adheres to the Master Key System plan, and that door/key references are audited.

ABS Security Specialist upgrading doors to be included within a high security Master Key System.

ABS Security Specialist

Your ABS Security Specialist can provide a full planning, installation, maintenance and service support to you. ABS trained staff are available to give advice regarding ABS Master Key Systems, as well as all considerations relating to locking products and relevant fire and safety standards.

With the benefit of a local service, additional keys and locks can be supplied upon demand, reducing the lead time for supply, and enabling your building/site to operate as normal.

Management of a Master Key System

Every Master Key System is unique and produced in accordance with specific requirements. To assist with the management of the system which has been supplied, every cylinder, padlock and key is marked with dedicated system references.

These references are meaningful to you and your Master Key System provider and are used when additional keys and locks are required for your system.

Secure records of your system are maintained by your ABS Security Specialist. They can provide additional keys and locks on production of an authorised request, and in accordance with the ABS Master Key System security protocol.

Service & Maintenance of a Master Key System

A Master Key System should be maintained in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations. ABS Master Key Systems are supplied with an Operational & Maintenance (O&M) guide to support long life product performance. Routine maintenance can be provided by your ABS Security Specialist

Service support, which includes the supply of additional keys and locks, and the installation of locks if needed, is offered and supported by ABS Security Specialists.

Image seen through laser filter.

Key referencing.

Perimeter Security

ABS TS007 3 Star rated Euro Cylinders are suitable for external doors and areas requiring high security locking solutions.

HIGH SECURITY

Precision engineered Patent Protected pin tumbler system with BS EN1303:2015 grade 6 key security - The highest rating possible.

SCALABLE SOLUTIONS

An extensive range of lock cylinders and a comprehensive range of high security padlocks can all be incorporated into a Master Key System in a dynamic and evolving environment.

BESPOKE SYSTEMS

Each system is designed and built to suit your specific needs. The system can have numerous groups and sub-groups with different levels of access whilst also having the ability to open every door with one grand master key.

Building Security

ABS provides high security cylinder solutions to suit all door types.

Shutter/Gate Security

Vehicular & pedestrian gate access and Roller Shutters can be incorporated into a Master Key System with ABS High Security Padlocks.

ABS Design

High Performance Locking.

Classroom Security Cabinet/Locker Security

ABS Design Cam Locks are ideal for securing cabinets, lockers, mailboxes etc.

SYSTEM CONTROL

Key holders are given access to areas of the building/ site to which they are permitted; reducing the risk of unauthorised access to other areas.

SYSTEM SECURITY

ABS Master Key Systems come with the benefit of patented key protection; your assurance of system security and reduced risk of unauthorised key duplication.

CLIENT SUPPORT

ABS Security Specialists provide you expert advice on Master Key System planning, installation and after care service.

Container/Storage Security

ABS Design Padlocks can be used to secure static or portable storage facilities.

PATENT PROTECTED SECURITY DESIGN

ABS 3 Star cylinders meet the requirements of TS007:2014+A2:2018

Kitemark standard and Building Regulations Part Q. Providing enhanced protection without the requirement for additional 2 Star rated security handles or guards.

ABS 1 Star cylinders meet the requirements of TS007:2014+A2:2018

Kitemark standard and Building Regulations Document Q when used in conjunction with TS007 2 Star rated security handles or guards.

DIAMOND

Sold Secure test and provide professional and accurate advice regarding effective security products to Commercial Customers, the Insurance Industry, the Home Office, the Police and the Public. We are proud to hold SS312 Diamond accreditation, the highest achievement for cylinders from Sold Secure.

ABS is an affiliate member of the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA), a not for profit organisation established to promote the level of skills and ethics within the industry.

ABS is a member of the Door Hardware Federation (dhf); a notfor-profit trade association for companies associated with Locks & Building Hardware; Doorsets; Industrial Doors & Shutters; Domestic Garage Doors and Automated Gates.

ABS is an approved member of the Secured By Design (SBD) product based accreditation scheme – the Police Preferred Specification which provides a recognised standard for all security products that can deter and reduce crime.

ABS Design Keys, Cylinders & Padlocks feature patent protected innovation which has been developed to increase the physical security of a Master Key System and reduce the risk of unauthorised duplication of keys.

EN1303:2015 GRADE

6 KEY SECURITY

ABS Design high performance cylinders achieve EN1303:2015 Grade 6, the highest classification possible.