Key cabinets and how to select them

How to select a key cabinet

Key cabinets provide secure storage for your keys, though the level of security will vary widely. Don’t expect to buy a budget key cabinet and expect it to be as secure as a key safe, though there is little point paying for more security than you need. This is the same with lock type, there is little point selecting a very expensive lock on a budget key cabinet. Key locks have the disadvantages such as lost keys or the keys being copied. If you want more than one user to be able to use the cabinet at any one time a combination lock that can store multiple combinations may be the best solution.

Levels of key cabinet security

Key store                              Low Security

System cabinet                  Medium Security

Key Vault                            Medium/High Security

Key Safe                              High Security

How many keys can a key cabinet hold

Key cabinets hold from 20 to 600 keys, deep cabinets are suitable for bunches of keys and there are specialist cabinets designed to hold padlocks.

Types of locks available

For the key store, the standard lock is a cam lock with two keys options available are a hasp lock to take a padlock along with a range of mechanical and electrical combination locks.

For the key vault, standard locking is a deadlock with 5-pin Euro profile cylinder & 2 keys, mechanical and electronic combination locks are available with the electronic combination locks allowing up to 8 users.

Key safes as standard the key safes are secured with a three-way locking mechanism, shooting 20mm bolts and using a VdS approved lock, although you have the option of fitting a combination or electronic locking system, mechanical and electronic combination locks are available with the electronic combination locks allowing up to 8 users.

Summery

Select the key cabinet with the appropriate level of security, carefully consider the lock in mechanism. If more than 1 person needs to access the cabinet then consider combination locks. It is wise to select a key cabinet with a little more capacity than your current needs so you have room for growth. If you need to store bunches of keys then select one of the deep cabinets as they are specifically designed for this.

John Scott