Immediate Steps to Secure Your Business During a Lock Emergency
A failed lock or card reader at the end of the workday can disrupt your schedule. You cannot leave your office or retail shop unsecured overnight. Follow these steps to manage the situation safely.
1. Verify Egress Safety
First, ensure that anyone remaining inside can exit easily. Egress codes require exit doors to open from the inside without a key or special knowledge. Do not use external chains or padlocks if anyone is still in the building.
2. Check the Access Control Power Supply
If your fobs suddenly stop working, check the backup battery or power supply box (usually located in a utility closet). A tripped breaker or a dead backup battery can cause card systems to lock up.
3. Contact a Mobile Locksmith
If the lock is mechanically broken, call an emergency commercial locksmith. They carry commercial cylinders, mortise locks, panic hardware, and electric strikes in their vans to repair or secure the doorway immediately.
First steps
Do not force the door. Note what happened: key does not turn, keypad dead, badge reader not responding. If you have an alarm, make sure it is set correctly before leaving.
Securing the premises
Call your locksmith and ask about temporary measures such as a padlock and hasp on the frame or a temporary lock. If the door will not lock at all, consider having someone stay on site until repairs are done.
After the repair
Find out why the system failed, and ask about a maintenance plan. Keep a record for insurance. See electric strikes and access control options.
Questions about a lock or key problem? Apna Locksmith is a Brampton-based mobile locksmith serving Brampton, Vaughan, Caledon, Etobicoke and Halton Hills. Call (289) 406-1500 or see our service areas.