Physical security is one of the most important and most neglected aspects of running a business. These 10 tips will significantly reduce your commercial security risk.
1. UPGRADE FROM BUILDER-GRADE LOCKS
Most commercial spaces have Grade 3 hardware — sufficient to pass a building inspection but not actually secure against a determined intruder. For exterior doors, upgrade to Grade 1 commercial deadbolts. The cost difference is modest; the security improvement is significant.
2. IMPLEMENT KEY CONTROL
Standard keys can be copied at any hardware store. Restricted-keyway locks (Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, ABLOY) use patented blanks that cannot be legally duplicated without your authorization. Only you can issue new keys — and you receive a complete record of every key in circulation.
3. BUILD A MASTER KEY HIERARCHY
Staff with different access needs shouldn't all carry the same key. A master key system gives individual staff access only to their area, managers access to their department, and ownership access to everything. Simpler security, better control.
4. REKEY IMMEDIATELY AFTER STAFF CHANGES
Terminated employee? Staff who had key access is no longer with you? Rekey that day — not next week. This is the most common source of commercial security breaches.
5. CONSIDER ELECTRONIC ACCESS CONTROL
For businesses with frequent staff changes or multiple entry points, electronic access (key fobs, PIN pads, card readers) offers advantages over physical keys: instant credential revocation, audit trails, and no rekeying costs after turnover.
6. INSTALL PANIC HARDWARE ON EXIT DOORS
BC Building Code requires panic bars on most commercial exit doors with public access. Non-compliant hardware creates both a safety and liability risk. We install UL-listed panic bars that meet BC fire code.
7. REINFORCE YOUR BACK AND SIDE DOORS
Criminals target weak points — back doors, loading docks, and side entries. These often have weaker hardware than the front. Grade 1 deadbolts, reinforced frames, and proper strike plates on all doors, not just the front.
8. SECURE YOUR SAFE PROPERLY
A safe that isn't anchored is just a portable box. Anchor floor safes to concrete and wall safes to structural framing. Change the combination when staff with knowledge of it depart.
9. DOCUMENT YOUR KEY DISTRIBUTION
Maintain a simple log of every key issued — who has it, when issued, and when returned. This makes auditing easy and creates accountability. Restricted keyways make this even more powerful since unauthorized copies can't be made.
10. SCHEDULE AN ANNUAL SECURITY REVIEW
Security needs change as your business grows. An annual locksmith review covers lock condition, key control audit, hardware recommendations, and access system evaluation. Casper Locksmith provides commercial security reviews for Burnaby and Vancouver businesses. Call (236) 826-4633.