5 Ways to Prevent Commercial Lockouts and What to Do in Emergencies

## Preventing Commercial Lockouts Being locked out of your business costs time, money, and can disrupt operations. Here are proven strategies to prevent lockouts and what to do when they happen. ## 5 Ways to Prevent Commercial Lockouts ### 1. Implement a Key Management System Poor key management is the leading cause of lockouts. Key Control Policies should include maintaining a master log of all keys issued, requiring sign-out/sign-in for shared keys, conducting regular key audits, having clear procedures for key returns, and securing spare keys in a key safe or lockbox. Best Practices include never labeling keys with business name or address, using restricted keyways that can't be copied at hardware stores, changing locks when keys are lost or employees leave, and considering electronic key cabinets for large organizations. ### 2. Upgrade to Keypad or Access Control Entry Electronic access eliminates traditional lockouts. Benefits include no physical keys to lose, changing codes instead of rekeying, issuing temporary codes for contractors, tracking who enters and when, and remote unlock capability. ### 3. Establish Multiple Access Points and Backups Don't rely on a single entry method. Backup Access Strategies include maintaining spare keys in secure off-site locations, giving trusted employees or neighbors spare access, installing secondary entry points with different keying, using key lockboxes with combination access, and keeping emergency locksmith contact information readily available. ### 4. Regular Lock Maintenance Preventive maintenance reduces unexpected failures. The Maintenance Checklist includes lubricating locks annually with graphite (not oil-based lubricants), checking for worn keys and replacing before they break, inspecting door alignment and strike plates, testing all locks regularly, and addressing any sticking or difficulty immediately. ### 5. Train All Employees on Lock Procedures Human error causes many lockouts. Training Topics should cover proper key handling and storage, access code protocols, what to do if locked out, who to contact for assistance, and emergency procedures. ## What to Do During a Lockout Emergency ### Stay Calm and Assess the Situation Before calling for help, check all entry points to see if another door is unlocked, contact key holders to see if anyone else has access, look for spare keys in hidden locations, and verify you're truly locked out since sometimes locks just stick or need adjustment. ### Do NOT Attempt to Force Entry This matters because damage to doors and locks can be expensive to repair, alarm systems may be triggered, broken glass creates security vulnerabilities, there's injury risk from tools or broken materials, and it may void insurance coverage. ### Contact a Professional Commercial Locksmith When calling for emergency service, provide your name and business name, exact address and any access instructions, type of lock and door, hours of operation and urgency level, and whether alarm systems are armed. ## Atlanta Emergency Locksmith Services Alex's Access Control provides 24/7 emergency commercial locksmith services throughout Metro Atlanta with rapid response to minimize downtime, licensed and insured professionals, non-destructive entry methods when possible, immediate rekeying if security is compromised, electronic lock service and programming, and preventive maintenance programs to avoid future lockouts. Save our number now and call Alex's Access Control for emergency lockout assistance any time, day or night.