“I’ve Got Nothing To Put In A Safe!”

I hear that so often and have to remind people of the consequences of the loss of so many familiar items, passport, wallet, driving license, bank books, just a few of the things that could lead to misery, or at least severe inconvenience if they were to fall into the wrong hands.

It was really heartening earlier this week to be able to work with a local ‘Elderly People’s Home’ to source a quantity of low cost but secure safes for each of their thirty residents. This represents a recognition of the right to privacy of the residents as well as a duty of care to the staff who may wrongly fall under the finger of suspicion if something were to go missing from a residents room or area.

These days safes can be purchased for very reasonable prices and used for so many different things. Parents sending children off to university after the summer might want to think about the provision of a low cost safe, which could be bolted to the floor or wall in student accommodation and provide a really effective facility to keep valuables safe from light fingered ‘acquaintances’ in what can be a hectic and sometimes chaotic lifestyle, led by students.

Elderly or vulnerable people who have careres in their homes on a regular basis are also at risk from theft or the perception of theft, in that if an item of value, money, jewelry or the like goes missing, there is often an assumption that theft has occurred, even though it may just have been temporarily misplaced. In these circumstances the ill feeling that develops can often destroy a relationship which otherwise was good.

Providing the facility to lock items away in a dedicated safe, which should be firmly bolted to the floor or wall provides peace of mind to the owner and removes temptation from anyone who may be weak willed when faced with a tempting opportunity!

“Remember – Always use a Master Locksmiths Association ‘Approved Company’ when considering your security needs. You can be assured that our trained staff will provide a quality service with integrity to give you total peace of mind.”

Contact Authorized Access by e-mail or phone 0161 762 9936 for further information and a quotation.

Large or small, organsiations with multiple key holders run a serious risk of loosing control of who has keys and how many are in circulation, unless their system uses ‘Restricted Keys’ and a register of keys issued is maintained.

Restricted keys are keys cut on a unique ‘profile’, or shape of key, available only to specified suppliers and issued only on the express authority of the suite owner. This ensures that duplicate keys are not obtained illicetly, either for unauthorised, illegal activity or simply for the convenience of occasional users.

Even in the home, restricted keys improve the security of premises by ensuring that temporary key holders, decorators, builders or cleaners for instance are unable to obtain copies of those keys and giving peace of mind to the owner that as long as keys are reurned after use, their home will not be susseptible to unlawful access after the event.

“I never realised just how many people had keys to my home until I sat down and thought about it!”

In commercial environments where a number of employees are official key holders, whether for an external gate to a vehicle compond for instance or for access to an entire building, if the key system used is not restricted then anyone may obtain copy keys, either to be passed on for illegal purposes or retained after that person no longer works for that organisation, either way control of security in that organisation has been compromised.

Voluntary organisations are repeat offenders when it comes to ‘irresponsible control’ of security. Churches, youth organisations, schools, etc. where multiple key holders may be authorized to provide acccess to various people out of hours often sacrifice secuirity for the sake of convenience but if something untoward were to happen, i.e. a breach of security and property was damaged or stolen, then the finger of suspicion may be pointed to unsuspecting, innocent people if it is known that they allowd or encouraged the unauthorized copying of keys, often causing further internal distrust and ill will.

“A little consideration before an incident occurs can often prevent a lot of unnecessary trouble!”

The use of restricted keys in all these situation, removes the occurence of break-ins, unauthorised entry and theft by people who would not under normal circumstances have been trusted with the security of the building.

Restricted keys are readily available from reputable locksmiths and often at little more expense than non restricted systems.

“Remember – Always use a Master Locksmiths Association ‘Approved Company’ when considering your security needs. You can be assured that our trained staff will provide a quality service with integrity to give you total peace of mind.”

Contact Authorized Access by e-mail or phone 0161 762 9936 for further information and a quotation.

High tech electronic security solutions are the accepted norm for convenient, secure and auditable systems in multi-user environments both in the public and private sectors, however most systems require some level of mechanical back up or override for times when the ‘convenience’ system is inoperative.

The application of restricted keys is essential in this case as anything less leaves the facility vulnerable to a breach of security with little chance of detection as unrestricted keys are able to be copied without any form of authority or identification being required.

Restricted keys, sometimes referred to as ‘security keys’ should be used in any situation where key control is required, that is where the owner or manager of a facility would like to retain control of who has keys issued to them and who is authorised to obtain copies of those keys.

This is a simple cost effective solution to an age old problem, that of unauthorised people being in possession of keys to secure premises. Restricted key cylinders are available for most applications and at a cost of little more than some unrestricted options.

The security of Schools, Churches, Youth Clubs, Sports Facilities, Business Premises and even Domestic Homes is vulnerable when keys locking those premises are able to be copied by anyone, without the need for proof or authorisation. Whenever anyone is given a key it is no longer under the control of it’s owner. If so inclined the key holder may then attempt to obtain copies and if not restricted could return the originals to the owner and they would be non the wiser that other ‘illicit’ keys were in circulation. Restricted keys would foil the attempt to copy the keys and in some cases may even lead to  the attempted duplication being highlighted to the owner.

Even without criminal intent, many unrestricted keys are copied by people who simply want the convenience of holding a key themselves, without having to ask the authorised holder for it’s use. Once the additional keys are in existence however, the systematic corruption of security is underway. Should anything untoward occur on the premises secured by those keys then it becomes almost impossible to identify the perpetrator as no one is exactly sure just who, or even how many people may have had access to the keys.

Restricted keys are low cost, readily available at most Master Locksmith’s Approved security retailers and an essential consideration for anyone responsible for the security of home or business premises.

“Remember – Always use a Master Locksmiths Association ‘Approved Company’ when considering your security needs. You can be assured that our trained staff will provide a quality service with integrity to give you total peace of mind.”

Contact Authorized Access by e-mail or phone 0161 762 9936 for further information and a quotation.

I, on the other hand am constantly amazed by people who leave themselves wide open to burglary by someone who has had access to a set of keys, eirther at home or at work and have had the opportunity to have those keys copied.

Most businesses and homes are locked by keys which can be readily copied at any convenient locksmith shop or heel bar, where the operators of those businesses are not obliged even to ask for proof of identity, never mind actual ownership of or right to access before making the copy.

Most people don’t consider the consequences of lending out a key; how many times have you left a key to your home with a neighbour while you you are away on holiday, or a cleaner, decorator or workman doing work while you are out?  How many employees are key holders to their places of work, either officially or just for convenience?

In all the instances above, if the keys in question were not restricted then it’s possible they could have been copied, again for reasons of convenience or for purposes less than honest! It may not have been the person who you thought was in control of the keys that made the copies but someone else.

The fact is YOU DON”T KNOW!!

Restricted keys are available for most applications where locks are used to secure premisses, for use on wooden doors, uPVC doors, composite doors, aluminium shop door and padlocks for all kinds of use and can cost little more than locks that utilise unrestricted keys.

Some locks are extremely robust and provide adequate deterent against forced entry when ‘brute force’ is used but offer little deterence when locked by an Un-Restricted Key which can be copied without the owners consent or knowledge and used to simply unlock the door, often invalidating any insurance cover the owner may have because it becomes hard to prove that the  ‘Minimum Insurance Requirement’ was met as there will be no sign of forced entry!

Typical applications where Restricted Keys enhance the security already in place:

• At home, if you ever allow other people to hold keys on your behalf (ANYONE!)
• At work, if you own a business and members of your staff hold keys.
• Churches/Schools/Youth Clubs/Sports Clubs or any situation where there are multiple key-holders.
• Landlords who let properties, commercial or domestic.
• Any situation where you might want to retain control of who has a key to your premises.

Retaining control of the keys and consequently the access to your property, whether at home or at work should be at the top of your list when considering security, it is fundamental and much easier than you might think!

Contact any Master Locksmith’s Approved Company for advice and remember advice should cost NOTHING!

“Remember – Always use a Master Locksmiths Association ‘Approved Company’ when considering your security needs. You can be assured that our trained staff will provide a quality service with integrity to give you total peace of mind.”

You can contact Authorized Access by e-mail or phone 0161 762 9936 for further information and a quotation.

In many cases Architectural Ironmongers have been supplying the same products for years; names known throughout the industry, tried, tested and well respected names but are they still the best value for money?

At Authorized Access Security Centres in Bury we offer the very best prices in Restricted Key solutions; Cylinders and Padlocks under Restricted Key Profile, Master Keyed or Keyed Alike to the configuration of your choice, with an absolute guarantee of Unique key differs, Master Keys and Key Control.

The benefits of working with Authorized Access:

• Guaranteed LOW Prices – You pay on order but secure the very best prices in the industry!
• Quick Lead Times – Premium Option for delivery within specified time scales!
• Unique Keys (NOT OFF THE SHELF SUITES) – Guaranteed key security for your client!
• Reliability and Integrity from a Master Locksmiths Company, 22 Years Established.
• We work to your specifications – Total flexibility!
• Speak to real people with a desire to satisfy your needs!

“We know the value of delivering service beyond our customers expectations, at a price acceptable to all parties. Our ethos is to provide a ‘WIN WIN’ solution for our customers and ourselves, that way everyone is delighted by the outcome and our customers come back time and time again!”

David Ramsden, Managing Director

AUTHORIZED ACCESS specialises in the supply of good quality, Restricted Key Solutions, either Keyed Alike or Under Master Key, in any quantity to suit domestic or commercial applications:

• One Key House for Builders, Door & Window Fitters, Home Owners.
• Master Suites for Architects and Quantity Surveyors designing commercial developments.
• Security/Operations Mangers in Commercial environments.
• Key control for Facilities Managers in Multi-Key Holder applications.
• Anyone to whom the control of keys is important!

Contact Authorized Access by e-mail or phone 0161 762 9936 for further information and a quotation.

“Remember – Always use a Master Locksmiths Association ‘Approved Company’ when considering your security needs. You can be assured that our trained staff will provide a quality service with integrity to give you total peace of mind.”

Many homes have double glazed windows where the glass is secured by the beading on the outside. This can easily be removed and is one of the most commen ways that burglars get in. Taking out the glass is quick and makes no noise.

“Market research shows that about 6 million homes in the UK are vulnerable but the fact is that most home owners are unaware taht there is a problem”

Only those to whom it has happened really realise how simple and easy it is for a burglar to gain access!

Manufactureres addressed this problem by providing double sided tape which bonds the glass to the frame but this relies on the window fitters using the tape properly, which in many cases can cause them problems when installing, causing some not to use it at all or apply detergent or silicone to the glass which adversly affect the effectiveness of the tape.

“The fact is there are many reasons why the tape may become ineffective, leaving windows vulnerable to burglars”

Authorized Access recommends the use of

NO GO GLASS LOCKS

Lock the glass into the frame so that the glass cannot be removed without smashing.

“NO GO GLASS LOCKS are designed to be easily fitted to existing windows and are a very cost effective way to make a property even more secure”

Contact Authorized Access by e-mail or phone 0161 762 9936 for further information and a quotation to secure your home.

“Remember – Always use a Master Locksmiths Association ‘Approved Company’ when considering your security needs. You can be assured that our trained staff will provide a quality service with integrity to give you total peace of mind.”

Most home owners would not consider restricted key systems when choosing locks for their home simply because they are NOT AWARE they are available, it is often considered a security solution only for businesses. Restricted keys enhance the security provided by any lock and without them, even ‘high security’ locks can be compromised by the keys being copied at random with little or no control.

At Authorized Access we will fit a security lock to your door then register its keys to YOU; this stops duplicate keys being cut without your knowledge, giving you total control of the keys to your home or business.

Restricted keys allow you to give a cleaner or other tradesman the key to your home and as long as you get it back, you know they will have been unable to obtain copies. At work, staff issued with keys to premises are unable to have extra keys cut without your express permission, again GIVING YOU TOTAL CONTROL over who has access to your premises.

Where would this be useful?

• Business premises with multiple key holders.
  • Keep control and know which members of staff have keys
• At home where keys are made available to cleaners, neighbours, tradesmen etc.
  • As long as you get the keys back you know nobody has been able to get copies made
• Churches, Schools, Clubs and Sports Clubs with multiple key holders.
  • Nobody who is unauthorized will be able to get keys copied
• Any situation where key control is required.
  • Stay in control of your security
  • 
    

IN BUSINESS

Looking after property, stock and the people who work within the business makes great business sense. It is vital that you make sure that the security measures taken are appropriate, realistic and cost effective. You need to keep criminals out while allowing your customers, suppliers and employees in.

Your business activity will guide your approach to security. In simple terms, high value products will attract more criminal activity and demand a higher level of security, however even those items with a perceived low cost value will be attractive to somebody. Taking a logical approach to securing your business will help ensure you don’t miss anything that might help deter crime. “In the current climate, the effect of interruption to business is greater than ever before.

By changing the locks and installing a RESTRICTED KEY SYSTEM you guarantee that you are in total control of who has keys and therefore access, to your property. Taking these simple steps now may save you from considerable heartache and upset later and costs little more than other non restricted options.

“Remember – Always use a Master Locksmiths Association ‘Approved Company’ when considering restricted keys as a means of securing your property, where you can be assured that trained staff will provide a quality service with integrity to give you total peace of mind.”

For assistance contact AUTHORIZED ACCESS or call 0161 762 9936, where our fully trained staff will guide you through the process.

Sound dramatic? Maybe but who would you trust with your life?

Anyone changing locks or fitting security to your premises literally holds the key to your home and your life.

Over the last 22 years I have owned and operated Authorized Access Security Centre in Bury and for a large percentage of that time been recognised as a Master Locksmith’s Association ‘Approved Company’ and in more recent years a fully qualified Master Locksmith. My reason for choosing this route was from the word go to position myself and my company as a ‘trusted and reliable specialist’ in the field of security, forging relationships with local businesses and officials to add credibility to my business proposition.

However, just being a ‘great chap’ is not enough to set you apart in business, you also have to do a good job and deliver EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE. Then you begin to forge a reputation for reliability, honesty and trustworthiness, a reputation worthy of being recognised as a Master of your trade.

Everyone has to start somewhere and I’m not suggesting that new start-up businesses, whether locksmiths or other trades are anything less than honest and reliable but when you are dealing with something so sensitive as you families or your employees security then you really should do your homework!

All Master Locksmith’s Approved(MLA) companies are regularly audited for compliance with the MLA Code Of Conduct. They are subject to stringent checks and measures, appropriate to confirm their suitability to carry out this sensitive role. Can be struck off the register if found to be in contravention of the code of conduct.

So how would you choose the right Locksmith?

• Where possible always use a Master Locksmith’s Approved Company.
• Check their credentials. Do you know anyone who has used them before?
• Do they have a static base, i.e. a shop/workshop premises with a land line telephone number – be wary of any business operating purely from a mobile phone!
• How long have they been in business?
• Have they carried out similar work in the area?
• Do they have verifiable, positive testimonials from previously satisfied customers?
• Are they a member of any local organisations such as ‘thebestof’ in their town?
• Are they known by the Crime Reduction Officers at the local police station?
• Ask them to recommend an appropriate high security option for your locks, i.e. Restricted key locking systems, anti snap or anti bump cylinders. Don’t be fobbed off with stories that they are not available for domestic premises.
• Ask for a written quotation for the work being carried out, specifying the products intended to be used.

Authorized Access Ltd is a Master Locksmith’s Approved Company and has recently been voted ‘The Most Loved Security Company in the UK’ during the National 14 Days Of Love Campaign, voted for by Bury people through thebestof bury.

For more information, or for general advice on security related matters, please do not hesitate to contact Lee on 0161 762 9936 or at info@authorized-access.co.uk. 

Once again this year we are on track to be recognised as one of Bury’s ‘most loved’ companies and the UK’s most loved security companies. To anyone who has already left testimonial for Authorized Access at thebestof bury website, we thank you most sincerely and if anyone would still like to leave a testimonial during the 14 Days Of Love, leading up to Valentines Day 14 February 2011 then please recommend Authorized Access here!

Anyone leaving a testimonial during this period will be entered into a prize draw each day of the remaining 14 Days Of Love and could win anything from an Apple IPad, Hot Air Balloon Ride and Meal for 2 at a Michelin Star Restaurant to Flowers for a year! But you have to be in it to win it!!

In our 22nd  year of business in Bury, at Authorized Access we aim to improve our customers and clients quality of life by providing appropriate and affordable security solutions, bringing peace of mind and a secure life style.

If you are unsure whether your home or business is adequately secured, then contact us at Authorized Access and we will carry out a security survey at no cost and with no obligation, so you can rest assured you have done all you possibly can to safeguard your family or employees.

In the current economic climate don’t let the fear of crime stop you enjoying life!

Call Lee on 0161 762 9936 for help or advice on any security related matter.

The do kicked off with a Champagne reception and everyone had their photo’s taken, there was a littl delay with the meal due to an unfortunate accident but meal completed, the proceedings got underway with Norman Prince as MC. Ex footballer Paul Fletcher entertained us with witty recollections of his time in the game and then the serious stuff began.

I couldn’t believe how anxious I became as the Customer Excellence category loomed and Authorized Access was spotlighted by Dianne Oxberry, introducing the awards.

“And the winner is….. Authorized Access!!”

The audience applauded and our table erupted. What a feeling, we had won! It’s good to know that we treat our customers the way we believe they should be treated but it’s fantastic to be recognised for it.

Customer Delight has always been central to the companies ethos and its testimony to our staff that its been recognised through this prestigious award, following closely on from being voted 3rd ‘Most Loved Locksmith’ in the UK and Best Service Provider in Bury 2010, Home and Garden Section through the Best Of Bury website, all in our 21st anniversary year in business.

On The Night!

Click on the link http://tiny.cc/5la5t and see the short video to get a flavour of the atmosphere at the awards evening and don’t hesitate to contact us at info@authorized-access.co.uk or phone 0161 762 9936 to seek advice on any security related subject.

Authorized Access is a Master locksmith’s Association approved company, employing qualified Master Locksmiths, providing service and advice to both domestic and commercial customers alike, aiming to make a difference in the community for years to come.