Introduction
In any business, changing personnel is a common occurrence. Whether due to promotions, resignations, or terminations, employee turnover is inevitable. One critical aspect many business owners overlook during this transition is the security of their premises. One question often arises: should you rekey your locks after every employee change? This blog post will analyze the importance of rekeying and help you decide the best course of action for your business.
What is Rekeying?
Rekeying is the process of altering a lock so that it can be operated by a new set of keys. After rekeying, the old keys will no longer work, thus enhancing security. It typically involves changing the tumblers or pins inside the lock. This process is often more cost-effective than replacing an entire lock system.
Why Rekeying is Important
Security should always be a priority for any business. Here are several reasons why rekeying might be essential after an employee leaves:
- Unauthorized Access: If a departing employee has left on bad terms or had access to sensitive areas, rekeying can prevent potential unauthorized access.
- Lost Keys: Employees may lose keys, and you cannot guarantee that they will be responsible enough to report it. Rekeying protects against the risk of lost keys falling into the wrong hands.
- Multiple Key Holders: If multiple employees had access to keys, keeping track of who has them can be challenging. Rekeying simplifies access control by ensuring that only current authorized personnel can enter specific areas.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that your premises are secure provides peace of mind for business owners and employees alike.
Who Should You Rekey the Locks For?
It’s essential to consider which employees warrant a rekeying of locks. Here are some instances where rekeying should be prioritized:
- Terminated Employees: If an employee is terminated, especially under unfavorable circumstances, rekeying is often necessary to safeguard your business.
- Resigned Employees: Even if an employee leaves on good terms, there’s always the risk that they may retain their keys. Rekeying can help mitigate this risk.
- Employees in Sensitive Positions: If an employee had access to sensitive information or areas, rekeying should be mandatory upon their exit.
- Supplier or Contractor Changes: If a contractor or supplier has finished their job, consider rekeying if they had access to your facilities.
How Often Should You Rekey?
The frequency of rekeying depends on several factors:
- Employee Turnover Rate: If your business has a high employee turnover rate, consider rekeying more frequently to maintain security.
- Type of Business: Businesses that handle sensitive information, such as financial institutions or healthcare facilities, should rekey regularly.
- Size of the Business: For smaller businesses, rekeying may be less frequent if there’s a stable workforce. However, for larger businesses with many accesses, more frequent rekeying may be necessary.
Alternatives to Rekeying
While rekeying is an effective method for securing your business, there are alternatives to consider that can also enhance security:
- Access Control Systems: Implementing an electronic access control system can limit physical keys and provide customizable permissions for employees.
- Key Management Solutions: Using a key management system can help track who has keys, alert businesses when keys are lost, and even allow for temporary access for contractors.
- Security Audits: Conduct regular security audits to evaluate the effectiveness of your security measures and make adjustments where necessary.
The Cost of Rekeying
The cost of rekeying can vary based on several factors:
- Type of Lock: Some locks are more complex and may require specialized tools or expertise, leading to higher costs.
- Number of Locks: The more locks that need rekeying, the higher the total expense. Businesses must balance this cost with security needs.
- Professional vs. DIY: Hiring a professional locksmith will incur a service fee, while doing it yourself may save money but may compromise quality.
Conclusion
Rekeying after every employee change is not just a good practice; it’s often a necessary step in maintaining the security of your business. While the decision to rekey can depend on various factors, prioritizing the safety of your employees and assets should always come first. By implementing regular rekeying, better access control methods, and staying proactive about security measures, you can protect your business and ensure a secure environment for everyone.